BANGOR, Maine (WABI) - The handler of the Maine comfort dog who died in a hot car earlier this year is facing charges in the animal’s death.

According to the Penobscot County District Attorney’s Office, Brodie Hinckley is charged with a civil violation of animal cruelty.

The announcement comes more than three months after Baxter’s death.

The 3-year-old chocolate lab, who served as Maine’s first comfort dog, was found inside a state vehicle at the Bangor Regional Communications Center.

Hinckley is due to appear in court in November.

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