A Leesburg man has been charged with animal cruelty in connection with the stabbing of a dog.
The Loudoun County Department of Animal Services reports that Michael Bowles, 18, of Leesburg, was arrested October 6, 2014, on a charge of animal cruelty. The charge is based on the stabbing of an American Bulldog owned by the Bowles family.
Loudoun County Animal Services conducted an investigation into a complaint related to the stabbing of the dog. It was found that the dog sustained a single stab wound to the neck area.
Bowles was charged with one misdemeanor count of animal cruelty, which is punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. The case is scheduled to be heard in General District Court in December. Bowles is currently in custody at the Loudoun County Adult Detention Center.
The dog was returned to the home after treatment by a local veterinarian and is currently recovering from the injuries sustained during the incident.
The Loudoun County Department of Animal Services is located at 39820 Charles Town Pike, Waterford, VA 20197. More information about the department is online at www.loudoun.gov/animals.
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Media Contact: Amy Martin, Shelter Administrator, 703-737-8097; amy.martin@loudoun.gov