Joliet Man Walked Bulldog Named Lucas Attached To 24-Pound Tow Chain And Brick: Police

JOLIET, IL — The Joliet Police Department closed out the month of August making an animal cruelty arrest, but it was an unusual incident, one involving a man out walking his dog.

According to Joliet police spokesman Tizoc Landeros, on Aug. 29, Rigoberto Hermosillo, 32, of Joliet, was arrested and released on a notice to appear on charges of cruel treatment of animals

Landeros said that at approximately 9:30 a.m., Joliet officers responded to the 600 block of Wilcox Street for an animal complaint reported through Joliet Township Animal Control. Officers observed Hermosillo walking his 2-year-old American bulldog, Lucas, which was attached to a 24-pound tow chain and brick.

The dog, which weighed 66 pounds and was not up-to-date on vaccinations, showed signs of distress, Landeros explained.

Hermosillo stated he intended to use Lucas in animal-pulling competitions and was “training” the dog. He was taken into custody, transported to the Joliet Police Department booking area, processed, and released on a notice to appear.

As for Lucas, he was transported to Joliet Township Animal Control for care.