Dognapping For Beginners

Stumbling in...
My name is Nikki Lawry. I'm not much of a joiner-more of a dog person, but that suits me just fine. I have my reasons. All I dream about these days is my own animal rescue centre, and I'm saving every penny I earn to purchase the land I need-one dog walking gig after another.
That's why I live in a tiny house in my mom's backyard, hooked up with a garden hose and an extension cord. Fancy. Like I said, minding my own business, saving every penny.
When my favorite customer, Miss K, told me about the abused black Lab chained up next door, we immediately plan a midnight rescue. Just when it seems we might pull off our clandestine mission, it's discovered there was a death in the neighborhood.
When? Why, exactly when I was skulking around with my trusty bolt cutters, of course.
I'm no detective, but even I can guess who the #1 Suspect is.