A New Jersey sheriff's officer has been charged after prosecutors alleged he left two police K-9s in a patrol vehicle without proper ventilation for about seven hours, leading to their deaths.

The dogs, Rip, a 4 year old Belgian Malinois, and Boomer, a 6 year old Springer Spaniel, were found dead on May 29. Investigators said the vehicle was not running, the windows were closed, no heat alarm was activated, and indoor kennels were available but not used. A necropsy determined the dogs likely died from heat stroke.

The officer has been placed on unpaid leave and is scheduled to appear in court on July 30. The Salem County Sheriff's Office said Rip and Boomer were valued members of the department whose service and dedication will not be forgotten.

nbcphiladelphia.com