Man charged with abusing his dogs after complaint from the public

A 43-year-old man has been charged and two dogs have been seized in an animal abuse case that took place last weekend in Temiskaming Shores. (File)

A 43-year-old man has been charged and two dogs have been seized in an animal abuse case that took place last weekend in Temiskaming Shores.

Ontario Provincial Police said they received a complaint about a dog being abused around 4 p.m. on June 27.

“During the investigation, police received additional reports from members of the public regarding the same individual allegedly mistreating the dogs in a public area in Temiskaming Shores,” police said in a news release June 30.

“Officers located the individual, safely secured the dogs with the assistance of local animal control and took the accused into custody without incident.”

The 43-year-old suspect, who is homeless, has been charged with a Criminal Code offence of causing unnecessary suffering to an animal.

Back in court in September

He was released from custody and is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Haileybury on Sept. 22.

“Both dogs were safely removed from the accused’s care and remain in the care of animal control pending the outcome of the court proceedings,” police said.

“The OPP would like to thank the members of the public who promptly reported the incidents and provided investigators with valuable information. Prompt reporting of suspected animal abuse plays a vital role in protecting vulnerable animals and assisting police investigations.”

Anyone who has witnessed or has information regarding animal cruelty is encouraged to contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122.

To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or submit a tip online.

If your information leads to an arrest, you may be eligible to receive a cash reward.