BROOKSVILLE, Fla. – A Hernando County man is facing felony animal cruelty charges after a disturbing video surfaced showing him repeatedly abusing two dogs.
The Hernando County Sheriff’s Office launched an investigation on Tuesday, November 19th, after receiving a complaint and video evidence of the abuse.
The video, which spanned 45 minutes, showed Joseph Lee Lamontagne, 57, punching, kicking, and striking two Cane Corso dogs with metal objects. The dogs, a male named Alger and a female named Hailie, whimpered in pain and tried to escape the abuse, but Lamontagne continued to drag them back and beat them.
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Deputies and Animal Enforcement Officers responded to Lamontagne’s residence, where they found the dogs without food, water, or shelter. Alger, who had been adopted by Lamontagne just two weeks prior, was observed walking with a severe limp.
Lamontagne was arrested and charged with two counts of felony animal cruelty. He admitted to hitting the dogs with a leash but denied the more severe abuse captured on video.
Both dogs were taken into protective custody and are being evaluated by a veterinarian. The County Attorney’s Office is also reviewing the case to determine if Lamontagne should be prohibited from owning animals in the future.
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“Felony animal cruelty is not just a crime against an individual animals, it is a crime against our community’s values. The severity of these offenses cannot be overstated. Inflicting pain and suffering on innocent creatures is a clear indication of a deep disregard for life itself,” said Sheriff Nienhuis. “As sheriff, I am committed to holding perpetrators accountable to the fullest extent of the law, because such cruelty has no place in a just society. We must take a firm stand against those who harm animals, ensuring that the punishment fits the gravity of their actions.”
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