CCTV Footage Captures Act of Animal Cruelty in Cobb County
A $10,000 reward is now available for information that leads to the arrest and prosecution of a man who abandoned a puppy in Georgia.
On February 21, 2025, a man left a cage containing an “extremely emaciated” labradoodle-mix near a home on Forest Lane SE in Marietta. The next day, at 12:47 p.m., a good Samaritan reported the act to Cobb County Animal Services. Surveillance footage showed the man running away after leaving the cage, but authorities have not yet identified him.
Puppy Found Starving in 30-Degree Weather
The metal cage provided no shelter from the cold. Worse still, the puppy had no food, water, or bedding as temperatures dropped to between 30 and 32 degrees Fahrenheit. Two days later, a cruelty assessment revealed the dog’s heartbreaking condition: his ribs, spine, and hip bones clearly protruded, and he showed signs of extreme muscle loss and zero body fat.
According to the Purina body condition scoring system, he was officially classified as severely malnourished.
Steve Hammond, director of Cobb County Animal Services, said on Newsweek, “This dog was a pet and has been estimated to be 5–6 months old. He has gained four pounds and is on a feeding schedule.” Volunteers have yet to name him, but a new chapter awaits once he recovers.
Reward Offered by Halo House for Dogs and Crime Stoppers
To help identify the person responsible, nonprofit Halo House for Dogs has partnered with Crime Stoppers of Greater Atlanta, offering a $10,000 reward for any information that leads to an arrest.
Anna Ware, a representative from Halo House, told Newsweek, “These types of cases are especially infuriating because there were so many options available. There are pet food pantries and low-cost clinics across Atlanta that could have helped.”
Despite the cruelty he suffered, there is hope for this young dog. Hammond confirmed that several people have already expressed interest in adopting him once he is healthy enough.
Laws and Penalties for Animal Cruelty in Georgia
In Georgia, aggravated animal cruelty—which includes acts like depriving a pet of food and shelter—is classified as a felony. Convictions can lead to one to five years in prison and fines of up to $15,000.
Cobb County’s Animal Cruelty Investigation Unit is urging anyone with knowledge about this case to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously to Crime Stoppers Atlanta by calling 404-577-TIPS (8477), visiting www.StopCrimeAtl.org, or texting CSGA and the tip to 738477.
