Editor’s note: This story contains graphic images of an animal that some may find disturbing.
A man accused of animal cruelty after his dog was found severely emaciated with open wounds and later died will face lower charges.
David Neanover, 36, of Reily Township, could have faced a felony charge of animal cruelty, but a Butler County grand jury decided this week he will instead face first-degree misdemeanors.
The case has sparked protests during Neanover’s court appearances by those outraged about what happened to the dog, Lucifer, who become known as “Lou.”
Butler County Sheriff's Office
Butler County Sheriff’s Office dog wardens responded to 6165 Main St. in April and found the dog, according to Sheriff Richard Jones.
“No normal human being could look at this dog and think this is acceptable,” Jones said in a written statement. “The pictures are hard to view. It’s much worse in person.”
The dog was cared for and hospitalized for five days at Animal Care Centers.
The medical staff was surprised when X-rays showed rocks in the dog’s stomach. He lived his life on a very short chain and was “deprived food for quite some time,” a social media post by the animal shelter read.
Anyone who knows of an animal in Butler County that’s being neglected or abused can make an anonymous report by texting ‘COPS’ and your tip to 274637 (CRIMES).
The Journal-News is a media partner of WCPO 9 On Your Side.
