TAMPA, Fla. – A 72-year-old Tampa man has been arrested and charged with aggravated animal cruelty after allegedly dragging a dog behind his truck, resulting in the animal’s death.
The incident occurred on Tuesday, February 12th, around 9:00 PM on the 4200 block of W. Kennedy Boulevard. A witness reported seeing a green Ford truck driving with a dog tied to the rear of the vehicle by a leash. Tampa Police officers responded to the scene and found the dog severely injured.
An investigation, aided by surveillance video, revealed that the suspect, Johnnie Davis, had driven approximately one mile with the dog being dragged behind the truck. The dog ultimately broke free from the leash due to the force of a turn into a bank parking lot. Davis then used the ATM at the bank and fled the scene, leaving the critically injured dog behind.
READ: Tampa Firefighters Extinguish Blaze At Hyde Park Cafe
Hillsborough County Animal Services transported the dog to a veterinary facility for emergency treatment, but sadly, the dog succumbed to its injuries.
“The cruelty inflicted on this helpless animal is both heartbreaking and unacceptable,” said Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw. “Our officers acted swiftly to ensure this criminal was identified and taken into custody. We will continue to seek justice for innocent lives and hold those responsible accountable.”
Davis was arrested at his residence on Wednesday, February 13th, and charged with Aggravated Cruelty to Animals. He was transported to Orient Road Jail.
The investigation is ongoing.
Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.
Connect with us: Follow the Tampa Free Press on Facebook and Twitter for breaking news and updates.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox.