Puppy picked up, held by one ear
Galveston, TX (US)Incident Date: Thursday, Apr 20, 2000
County: Galveston
Disposition: Alleged
Alleged: Maurice Westmoreland
A 27-year old Houston man who Galveston authorities say was photographed dangling a puppy by an ear during a beach party last weekend has turned himself into police.
A photo of a man holding a pit-bull puppy by one ear sparked community outrage when it appeared in the Galveston County Daily News.
Police said Maurice Westmoreland traveled to Galveston on Thursday to face charges of cruelty to an animal after he was contacted at his home in Houston.
Galveston police Lt Michael Putnal said police received numerous leads after the picture appeared in area media.
Westmoreland was escorted by his father, Louis Faust.
"He was playing with his puppy, period," Faust said. "You know, it was a pit bull, and they're stronger and tougher than most dogs."
Police said Westmoreland had said he would bring the pictured pup with him to Galveston, but no dog showed.
"He claims the dog belongs to a friend, and he couldn't get in touch with the friend before coming down." Putnal said. "Since he's been 100 percent cooperative with us, we have no reason to believe he's lying."
Upon finding the youjng pit bull, police plan to take the dog a veterinarian for a check up.
Westmoreland was booked at the city jail where he posted $2,500 bond and was released. References- Associated Press - April 21, 2000
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