A New Jersey man who raised more than $14,000 on GoFundMe to cover his German Shepherd's vet bills is accused of causing the injuries that led to the puppy's death.

Police said they became suspicious of Reid M. Herjo, 24, of Medford, after he was pulled over for speeding in January while taking his then-14-week-old puppy, Atlas, to the veterinarian. He told officers Atlas was hit by an ATV, police said.

Less than a week later, Atlas died from hemorrhaging and numerous fractures from additional injuries, authorities said.

Herjo had Atlas for less than three months and suffered injuries at least three times, before dying in February at 5 months old, police said.

Atlas died on Feb. 3 "under suspicious circumstances as there was evidence Atlas sustained additional trauma," authorities said.

Herjo set up a fraudulent GoFundMe for veterinary bills, raising more than $14,000 for injuries he claimed the dog sustained in a hit and run accident, police said.

He closed the campaign the day after Atlas died.

Herjo was charged with animal cruelty and theft by deception.

GoFundMe said Herjo has been banned from its platform and that all donors will receive a refund.

Sophie Nieto-Munoz may be reached at snietomunoz@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her at @snietomunoz. Find NJ.com on Facebook.