BANGOR, Maine — Editor's note: The attached video was originally published on Sept. 12, 2025.

The Maine Department of Public Safety official charged in connection with the death of the state’s first comfort dog has resigned, according to the department.

Shannon Moss, spokesperson for the department, confirmed that Brodie Hinckley resigned from his position as director of communications on Oct. 3. Hinckley had been placed on administrative leave last month after being charged with a civil violation of animal cruelty in connection with the death of Baxter, a 3-year-old chocolate Lab.

Baxter, who served as a comfort and support dog for Maine’s emergency communications staff, was found dead in a state vehicle outside the Bangor Regional Communications Center on May 28. Investigators de

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