Animal Abuse Investigation Leads To Arrest In Stafford: Police

STAFFORD COUNTY, VA — A Stafford man was arrested on Friday after beating his dog with a stick and pulling a gun out when his housemates confronted him about the abuse, authorities said.

The dog, a pit bull named Demon, received treatment at a local veterinarian's office. He was bleeding from the nose and mouth when authorities rescued him.

The Stafford County Sheriff's Office identified the suspect as 30-year-old Rickey Carr. He is charged with two counts of felony animal cruelty and one count of brandishing.

If convicted of all charges, Carr could face up to 11 years in prison, based on Virginia's sentencing guidelines.

On Dec. 29, Stafford County deputies arrived at a home on Knollwood Court. Residents told deputies that Carr beat Demon with a stick, according to the police report. When the residents confronted Carr, he pulled out a handgun.

Deputies confiscated the firearm and took Carr into custody. A magistrate later released Carr, according to authorities.

Authorities opened an animal cruelty investigation and found Demon bleeding from the nose and mouth. On Friday, Carr lost custody of Demon and another dog during a seizure hearing.

The county's animal control officers are taking care of the animals. Demon is still recovering from his injuries, the sheriff's office said.