Case Snapshot
Case ID: 19141
Classification: Beating, Kicking/Stomping
Animal: dog (non pit-bull)
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Monday, Jan 16, 2012

County: Newport News City

Charges: Misdemeanor, Felony CTA
Disposition: Alleged

Alleged:
» Matthew Ryan Mansfield
» Ann Marie Russell

A 24-year-old man from Newport News has been charged with felony cruelty to an animal after police accused him of beating a Labrador retriever so severely the animal had to be euthanized.

Police were called to a home on Beechmont Drive about 2:30 p.m. Monday after a report of a domestic situation, said Newport News police spokesman Lou Thurston.

Matthew Ryan Mansfield, 24, was accused by his girlfriend, Ann Marie Russell, of beating the 1-year-old black Lab because the dog relieved itself inside the home.

Thurston said police officers were told a man living at the address had beaten the dog with his fists and a flashlight, and had also kicked the dog numerous times.

"When the officers arrived they noted that the dog did not appear to be active as would normally be expected," Thurston said. "There were signs that the dog had been seriously injured or was suffering from other issues."

Animal control officers were called in to assist. Thurston said Russell signed the dog over to animal control officers for it to receive medical attention.

"The severe injuries led to the dog having to be euthanized by a veterinarian," Thurston wrote in an email.

Mansfield was charged with felony cruelty to an animal and is being held in the Newport News City Jail.

Russell, 19, also Beechmont Drive, was charged with misdemeanor animal cruelty "due to her failing to protect or seek treatment for the dog," Thurston said.

References

« VA State Animal Cruelty Map
« More cases in Newport News City County, VA

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