- West Virginia, USA -
~ Update: October 23, 2024
After hearing back from Prosecuting Attorney Ciliberti, Jr. I learned that at the time of the incident the furvictim was “approximately 3 - 4 months of age.”
To my question about the furvictim’s name, Prosecuting Attorney Ciliberti answered: “We don't know the name Mr. Wood may have given the dog, but after the dog was taken from Mr. Wood, she was given the name ‘Lady Bug’.”
I was also kindly provided with a picture of Lady Bug that was taken at the veterinarian's office.
I further asked Prosecuting Attorney Ciliberti whether WOOD had been charged with animal cruelty in the past and I was told: “Mr. Wood has not been previously charged with animal cruelty based upon a review of his criminal history.”
~ Original story:
The Fayette County Prosecutor’s Office announced that on October 18, 2024, Circuit Judge Thomas H. Ewing sentenced 44-year-old TEDDY EDWARD WOOD (pictured) to not less than one nor more than five years in prison for the felony offense of cruelty to animals.
The incident that led to WOOD’s arrest happened on February 27, 2023, when law enforcement responded to a disturbance at a residence in Ansted. According to the press release by Prosecuting Attorney Anthony Ciliberti, Jr., neighbors reported hearing WOOD yelling and a dog yelping in distress.
Witnesses told law enforcement they saw WOOD striking a young dog with a metal pole and his fists. Witnesses further stated that when they tried to intervene, WOOD told them the dog was his and therefore he could do whatever he wanted to.
In the yard of the residence, officials found a young female mixed-breed puppy who “appeared extremely scared and was unable to walk”, stated the release.
An Animal Control Officer took possession of the furvictim and took her to a local veterinarian for evaluation and treatment. The vet reported that the puppy’s pelvis had been fractured in two places, a tooth had been broken off, and that she sustained multiple cuts and abrasions.
The Innocent Soul gradually recovered but “walked with a noticeable limp.” According to the Fayette County Prosecutor’s Office, the puppy was later adopted through a rescue organization.
On August 12, 2024, WOOD pled guilty to the felony animal cruelty charge.
As explained by Prosecuting Attorney Ciliberti, WOOD must serve a minimum of one year in prison before being eligible for parole and under West Virginia law, he “is also prohibited from owning, possessing, or living with any animal for a period of fifteen (15) years.”
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Voice For Us Disclaimer: This story is sourced from the press release by the Fayette County Prosecutor’s Office. Please note that details may be removed or new information added should updates become available.
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