MEMPHIS, TN – Memphis police say a man was arrested after finding two starved pit bull puppies.
According to a police document, officers were called to the 1000 block of Stafford about a possible prowler, Monday, December 29, 2008, around 2:15 p.m. When officers arrived, they found a dead pit bull puppy, near a doghouse. Investigators say the dog did not have any food and a bowl was found with what they say appeared to be black water. Officers say they then found another pit bull puppy tied to a cable. Police say that puppy looked very malnourished and did not have food, water or any kind of shelter.
Police say they talked to the owner of the dogs, 28 year-old Edward Johnson Jr., who said that he had fallen on hard times. Johnson told police that he could not afford to feed the puppies, so he would skip feeding the dogs a day or two at a time. He also told officers that the dead puppy had been that way in his backyard for seven days.
Johhnson's wife says her husband loved the dogs that were tied back here, and thinks the charges are too severe.
"I think they were a little harsh on him. He don't abuse them. He couldn't take care of them but didn't starve them on purpose," says April Johnson.
If you can't afford to take care of your pet anymore, the best thing is to ask friend or neighbor if they know of someone who can. You can also contact a local animal rescue group. One of them is called Dogs 2nd Chance at 901-485-3450
Edward Johnson Jr. has been charged with Cruelty to Animals and Aggravated Cruelty to Animals. His bond has been set at $2,000.
