The Lassen County Sheriff’s Department is releasing details of a preliminary investigation into the death of Janesville veterinarian Richard Meinert. Lassen County Sheriff’s deputies found Meinert’s body early Monday morning at his Trinity Way veterinary clinic.
According to Sheriff Dean Growdon, deputies responded to a report of a death in the Janesville area at around 8:30a.m., and discovered a deceased male within the business of Thompson Peak Veterinary Clinic.
That person has been identified by the Sheriff’s Office as Richard Meinert, age 55, of Janesville.
Based on the initial assessment, the Bureau of Forensic Services from the California Department of Justice was called to assist in the processing of the scene.
“Although we are in the preliminary stages of the investigation, said Growdon, “evidence exists to lead us to believe that Meinert’s death may have been the result of a criminal act and possibly in concert with a break-in at the business.”
“We are currently investigating the death as a possible homicide and the investigation is ongoing,” continued Sheriff Growdon. “The Sheriff’s Office is asking for the assistance of the community, and encourages anyone with information that could assist in this investigation to call (530) 257-6121.”
