Reily Twp Man Arrested for Animal Cruelty

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Jun 032015
 

news-releaseFor Immediate Release
June 3, 2015

Reily Township Arrested for Beating His Dog

Butler County Sheriff Richard K. Jones reports that on June 1st, at approximately 1:00 PM, his Deputy Dog Wardens responded to 6029 Stillwell Road in Reily Township to investigate animal cruelty.

Robert Lewis

Robert Lewis



Robert Lewis, a 23 year old male, was reportedly seen punching and kicking a dog in his yard. Mr. Lewis fled the residence when deputies arrived.  Yesterday at approximately 2:20 AM, he was arrested and charged with obstructing official business, resisting arrest, and four counts of cruelty to animals. He also had several outstanding warrants from the City of Hamilton.

Lewis had five dogs, and all were removed by BCSO Deputy Dog Wardens.  They are now being cared for and housed at the Animal Friends Humane Society on Princeton Road in the City of Hamilton.  “These animals were severely abused. They were extremely submissive and obviously scared.  We will keep them at the shelter for medical treatment and observation,” Dog Warden Supervisor Kurt Merbs said.

“It is truly repulsive that a human being can beat a defenseless animal,” Sheriff Jones said. “Mr. Lewis told our deputies that he was ‘disciplining’ his dogs.  I think anyone with an ounce of common sense knows that torturing and beating animals is not a form of discipline.  Unfortunately, animal cruelty is a misdemeanor, but we will work closely with the prosecutor to see that he is punished to the fullest extent of the law.”

Three of the dogs were puppies and were voluntarily signed over, by Lewis, to the Animal Friends Humane Society. The case is still under investigation and placement of the other two dogs will be determined at a later time. Anyone interested in adopting these or other animals should visit or contact the Animal Friends Humane Society.