By Patrick Tepoorten

Three young North Branch boys stand accused of beating a 3-month old puppy on June 12. According to County Attorney Katherine Johnson one of the boys, which she would only characterize as ìunder 10 years old,î admitted to a role in the abuse that would lead to the miniature pinscherís death, but the other two boys have steadfastly denied they had anything to do with it.

Johnson described the injuries to the dog as including broken legs and severe head injuries. The puppy was put down later on the day of the incident.

Lt. Steve Forner of the North Branch Police Dept. (NBPD) confirmed the ages of the boys as six, six, and eight years of age. He confirmed on Thursday that one of the boys admitted to the incident, while another of the boys claims to have been there but not involved. The third boy denies any involvement.

Johnson said on Wednesday afternoon that none of the three boys will be charged with a crime, because prosecuting juveniles of their age is not allowed for in Minnesota law. She added that the report of the incident filed by the NBPD contains no reason given by the boys for their actions. ìThere is nothing to indicate why,î she said.

Johnsonís office will refer the record of the incident to Health and Human Services for what she characterized as standard inquiries. ìTheyíll see if the children need any of their services,î she stated.