Burned Dog Prompts Felony Animal Abuse Investigation

MONROE, N.C. – On July 2, Nova looked like a relatively healthy, if a bit underweight, pit bull-mix brindle puppy. Seven days later, Nova had severe burn marks on her back and neck. “The veterinarian says it’s either a chemical burn or a burn from hot oil or grease that was poured on her, or doused on her,” says Nova’s new owner, Adison Plyler.

The 9-month-old dog, healing well, is now at the center of a felony animal cruelty investigation led by Captain Beth Greene of Monroe Police. “We’re gonna run down every possible lead until we find an answer,” says Captain Greene.

The case opened July 2 when a woman called to report a man on Goldmine Road, beating the dog. Greene says, “(He) had it hanging by its leash, and was beating it, then was dragging it down a dirt road toward the residence.”

Officers responded, and took a picture to document that the dog seemed OK, but they told the owner to bring the dog up to date on vaccines. When officers were called back a week later, and found the dog burned, they seized her.

Nova’s then-owner had 72 hours to claim her.
He didn’t.
The woman who called police July 2, ended up adopting the animal.

Plyler is her fiance. He says, “I wanna see him (whoever burned the dog) get charged with everything he can be charged with.”

So far, Nova’s previous owner, 25-year-old Archie Hansley III, is charged with misdemeanor animal cruelty for the beating. The investigation is active and ongoing, and Greene says, “No ma’am, it’s (the case) not going away.”

Captain Greene, an animal lover herself, wants whoever burned the dog to be brought to justice, too. She says, “It’s our job to find out how did it. And then press charges. And make ’em stick.”

The local rescue group called Pawsitive Impact is paying for Nova’s roughly $1,600 vet bill. If you have any information about who burned Nova, Monroe Police want to hear from you. Call 704-282-4700 and ask for Captain Greene, Officer Hutchinson or Officer Isley. You could get a reward.