Charlotte Man Arrested for Animal Cruelty
[gtxvideo vid=”nn9XHaoU” playlist=”” pid=”Bbt3TRDe” thumb=”http://player.gtxcel.com/thumbs/nn9XHaoU.jpg” vtitle=”dog abusedβ]
CHARLOTTE, NC —Β A man viciously beating a dog in his backyard: and it’s all caught on camera. Β
That video was posted on social media, leading CMPD to arrest the man and charge him with animal cruelty.
Video showing Charles Davidson hitting his dog, with what looks like a belt, was posted to social media. It started making the rounds on animal abuse forums, and eventually found it’s way to CMPD’s Animal Care and Control Division.Β
“It was fine that it came to us through social media,” said Mark Balestra with CMPD Animal Care and Control. “It prompted us to have as much information as possible. Obviously, it’s preferred if the witness themselves comes forward.”
CMPD went to Davidson’s home on Simmons Street Tuesday evening, and he gave up the dog. Β
The pit bull mix was examined. No injuries were found, but the dog did show behavior consistent with abuse.
CMPD arrested Davidson Wednesday afternoon. He’s charged with animal cruelty. The second dog seen in the video was moved to a different Charlotte address and was picked up by Animal Care & Control. It also showed no signs of injury.
Many of Davidson’s neighbors have seen the video, and opinions vary on his actions.
“That dog go through all these episodes,” said neighbor Tony Richardson. “Not only with the owner, but other people, as far as handling them now. Know what I mean?”
“In his backyard,” said neighbor Macy Douglas. The dog was tied up. Dog wasn’t no harm to nobody. He wasn’t no harm to nobody. So I don’t know why they arrested him.”
Both dogs will remain in the care of Animal Care and Control pending a trial.
