- Illinois, USA -
Madison County IL State’s Attorney’s Office announced in a Facebook post that 45-year-old RODNEY W. JOHNSON (pictured below), was back in court Thursday, April 16.
He pleaded guilty to animal torture for spraying a toxic chemical on a dog causing skin destruction.
He was sentenced to five years in the Illinois Department of Corrections, the maximum sentence available under law for a Class 3 felony.
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On Thursday, February 6, a 10-year-old Maltese mix named Charlie was dropped at the Madison Police Department in critical condition.
The Department contacted Pound Pets Inc., an animal rescue organization located in Granite City, to get Charlie urgent treatment as he was covered with burns.
Thanks to immediate action by Pound Pets Inc., Charlie was taken to Veterinary Specialty Services in Manchester, Missouri for immediate medical attention.
Charlie was dropped at the police station days after he sustained the atrocious injuries.
In connection with this case, on February 11, Madison County State’s Attorney Tom Gibbons filed charges against RODNEY W. JOHNSON for spraying a toxic chemical on a dog causing chemical burns and skin destruction.
JOHNSON was charged with one count of animal torture, a Class 3 felony, and one count of aggravated cruelty to animals, a Class 4 felony.
Madison County IL State's Attorney's Office also wrote in their Facebook post:
“While we are proud he received the maximum sentence, considering the horrific nature of the crime, we do not think it is enough time. We will continue to advocate for longer possible sentences in future animal abuse cases.”
As for Charlie, I am happy to let you all know that the beautiful furbaby has recovered from the incident.
Pictures via Pound Pets Inc. Rescue
