State News - Saturday Mar. 24

WEST CALN TOWNSHIP, Pa. (AP) - A Chester County man who shot and killed a beloved police dog will not face animal cruelty charges. Authorities say an investigation determined that the shooter, Dennis Herr, would not have been able to see the badge, leash or anything else that would have distinguished the police dog -- Nelo -- from a coyote. Herr told police he thought he was shooting at a coyote on property he owns in West Caln Township back in November. The 16-month-old dog ran off after being frightened off by fireworks on November 26th and was found in dead in nearby woods several days later.

AVONDALE, Pa. (AP) - A Cub Scout treasurer from Chester County is charged with theft. State police say 35-year-old Carolyn Jo Pate stole 48-hundred dollars from the account of Pack 272. Investigators say she's been stealing money in increments since last April, when her stint as treasurer started. Her stint ended this month. Police did not say what they believe she allegedly spent all that money on. Pate faces multiple charges, including writing bad checks.

PHILADELPHIA (AP) - Firefighters rescued a woman and three children from their West Philadelphia apartment early this morning. Fire broke out in Big D's Playhouse Lounge, which is below their apartment. Flames badly damaged the lounge. Smoke billowed above into the apartment where the woman and children were. They suffered smoke inhalation, but are reported in good condition at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. No other injuries have been reported. Investigators have not said what sparked the fire.