Richard Hill, the Cleveland man who made headlines after he was cited for smashing a car window to save two dogs, pleaded not guilty to criminal damaging in Parma Municipal Court Wednesday afternoon.
Back in July, Hill was leaving a Parma Walmart when he noticed the dogs inside a hot, closed car. A group of concerned people surrounded the vehicle, and as one called 911, Hill took a hammer from his car to smash the window in an effort to get the dogs out safely.
Police arrived moments later, but according to surveillance video, the animals had only been in the car for eight minutes.
Although Ohio law protects those trying to save hot dogs from prosecution, Hill was cited from criminal damaging, leading to strong reactions on both sides.
“This situation right here, is what deters people from actually stepping up and doing the right thing,” Hill said following the incident.
Should he be convicted, Hill could face a maximum $750 fine and 90 days in jail.