Chained dog starved, resulting in death
Ardmore, OK (US)Incident Date: Thursday, Apr 30, 2009
County: Carter
Charges: Felony CTA
Disposition: Alleged
Alleged: Samuel Marshall, Jr.
On Thursday, April 30, 2009, shortly before noon, Ardmore Police Animal Control was called to a home in the 700 block of Southeast Colbert in reference to an aggressive animal call.
Animal Control Officer Miller arrived and spoke to the reporting party who stated that her neighbor allowed aggressive dogs to roam at large sometimes. ACO Miller approached the residence in question to speak with the homeowner about his neighbor's allegations, and in doing so noticed what appeared to be a malnourished pit bull puppy outside the house. APD Sgt. Lynne James was called to the scene to assist ACO Miller. Closer inspection would reveal another dog laying under a camper shell in the backyard, chained and in very poor health. The animal would later die at the municipal animal shelter after being taken into protective custody.
The resident and owner of the dogs arrived while APD officers were on scene, and was identified as 45-year old Samuel Marshall, Jr. Marshall indicated he was aware of the sick dog's condition and had been administering medication. He told officers he was unable to provide a vet for the animal, due to financial constraints.
Officers determined that the animals had been deprived of food and water. ACO Miller discovered the decomposing remains of a dog in the backyard underneath a plastic tub. Skeletal remains of another canine were also discovered near a doghouse on the rear of the property.
Marshall was arrested and transported to the Carter County Jail pending charges of six counts of cruelty to animals. Cruelty to animals is a felony in the State of Oklahoma, and may be punished by a prison term of up to five years and/or a fine of up to $5,000. References |
