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Wilton butcher shop closed by health officials

WILTON – After police investigations of complaints of spoiled meat and lost orders filed by several area residents, Health Officer Steven Desrosiers issued a cease-and-desist order to Phillip’s Wild Game Butcher Shop the day after Christmas. New Hampshire Fish and Game Department was also called to investigate.

The shop is owned by Phillip Pellerin. He opened for business following the retirement of long-time game processor Darrell Fisk last fall. A possible cause of the problem could be a mal-functioning walk-in freezer.

Both Desrosiers and Emergency Management Director David Boissonnault referred all questions to Town Administrator Paul Branscomb who has been away during the holidays.

Administrative Assistant Janice Pack said all information had been received in non-public sessions and she could not comment.

Police Chief Eric Olesen was due to return to duty on Jan. 2. A police spokesman said the policy is not to comment on current investigations.

According to the police department log, on Dec. 10, a Milford resident said he and his son had dropped off a deer in November for butchering. He had not gotten the meat back and phone calls were not returned.

On Dec. 13, a Bedford resident complained about not receiving his deer meat.

Police investigated both complaints as possible thefts.

On Dec. 14, police responded with the health officer and fire department personnel to a Burns Hill Road residence to address a potential hazardous material situation involving a deer butchering.

The Milford resident said when he opened a package of meat it was rotten, that it smelled rancid.

Police are continuing to investigate the situation and anyone with a complaint or information may call 654-9452.