[Reprinted from original]

Original Title: Beverly police investigating after multiple dead raccoons found on beach

Authorities are investigating possible illegal trapping or poisoning after multiple dead raccoons were found on Dane Street Beach in Beverly, police announced Friday.
Animal control found the raccoons over the past few days at the northern end of the beach, Beverly police said in a statement. The deaths are considered suspicious, but the level of foul play is not known.
“Due to the condition that these animals have been found in, it is suspected that this may be a result of illegal killing of animals, potentially by way of illegal trapping or poisoning,” the statement said. “If confirmed this behavior would be in violation with State Hunting and Trapping Laws.”
The Massachusetts Environmental Police, which enforces trapping laws, is also investigating, the statement said.
The Massachusetts Environmental Police is also investigating. There is no threat to the public, though residents and dog walkers should avoid contact with any carcasses they may come across, due to an unknown cause of death of these animals, the statement said.
If any carcasses are spotted they should be report them to the Animal Control Division at 978-605-2361 or the Massachusetts Environmental Police at 1-800-632-8075, the statement said.