Chief Michael Hardesty will remain on suspension pending the outcome of the charges, said Erin Sakalik, township manager.
Hardesty worked one year as a part-time police officer for the township before being promoted to chief last year, Sakalik said. He earns $15 per hour.
Supervisors voted unanimously to suspend Hardesty at their meeting on Monday, Sakalik said.
Washington Area Humane Society officials last week accused Hardesty of abusing a 1-1/2 year-old Rottweiler, which was recovered Feb. 19 from his North Bethlehem home.
Investigators found the dog confined to a basement area without food, water or bedding. The malnourished animal was more than 20 pounds underweight for her age, humane society investigators said.
Magisterial District Judge Curtis Thompson last week issued a summons for Hardesty. No hearing has been scheduled.
(WPXI - March 13, 2013)
Earlier:
