Two dogs abandoned, one found dead - Newport News, VA

Sunday, Sep 30, 2007

County: Newport News City

Charges: Misdemeanor
Disposition: Alleged
Case Images: 1 files available

Alleged:
» Darnella Lewis
» Lakeisha Lewis

Case Updates: 1 update(s) available

Authorities are investigating a case of animal abuse in Newport News.

Over the weekend, an Animal Control officer discovered an emaciated pit bull at a home on 23rd Street in the East End area of the city.

The Animal Control officer noted that the dog had no visible signs of fat and muscle mass, and that all of his major bones were clearly outlined by his skin.

"They sized that dog due to immediate and direct threat to its life and later obtained a search warrant for the use and found another deceased dog inside," said Bill Wise of Newport News Animal Services.

They discovered the deceased pit bull was half eaten by the dog they had rescued.

"Anyone with common sense would say they would have to be pretty hungry before it would consume another dog," said Wise.

It's hard to say how long the dogs were abandoned. There's one report that says they were left alone for about two weeks, but, a report from a veterinarian shows the deceased animal hadn't been dead that long.

The house on 23rd Street where the animals were found first came under scrutiny in late July. As part of the Weed and Seed Program city officials were out checking different parts of the southeast community for code violations.

The house with the dogs was cited for electrical and gutter problems, but it was also during that time several neighbors also reported seeing two malnourished dogs.

The surviving pit bull is under a vets care.

"He should be able to recover," said Wise. "It's in sable condition getting fluids, getting small amounts to bring its body weight back up. Overall it seems to be in pretty good condition."

Case Updates

Warrants have been filed for Darnella and Lakeisha Lewis of Hampton, Virginia.

Update posted on Nov 4, 2007 - 12:56AM

References

• WVEC - Oct 3, 2007

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