West Harrison, IN—On Saturday Joseph J. Stubbers III, of West Harrison was taken into custody for Cruelty to Animals.

A neighbor called 911 concerned for the welfare of the animal. Upon officer’s arrival, Dearborn County Sheriff Deputies learned that another neighbor observed Stubbers fire a shot at the dog, Cooper, with a handgun.

Sheriff Deputies responded to the Laurel Valley Drive address and observed spots of blood, a hose turned on, bleach sitting on top of a trashcan, and a live .40 caliber round sitting in the driveway. Two spent .40 caliber rounds and a bullet that had been fired with hair on it were located pursuant to a search warrant that was executed at the residence.

The Deputies followed a blood trail that led to a large dog on the front porch licking its front leg. The officers observed the dog to have a mutilated right eye and fresh, wet blood coming from it.

Sheriff’s Deputies were able to locate Stubbers, who told police that the dog attacked him and that he had to put it down tonight. When the deputy told Stubbers that the dog was still alive, Stubbers then stated that he went over to his dog, grabbed his collar and that the dog “latched” on his arm. Deputies allege there were no marks on Stubbers’ arm. Stubbers went on to state that he took a hammer to threaten the dog and then hit the dog in the head with the hammer.

Stubbers was taken into custody and charged with Cruelty to an Animal.

Cooper, the dog, was rescued by the Dearborn County Animal Control and is receiving care from the local veterinarians.