13-05-2025
‘Very disturbing': Local man facing felony after caught on video abusing his pet dog
BEDFORD HEIGHTS, Ohio (WJW) — A 26-year-old man is facing a felony charge of cruelty to animals after he was caught on video physically abusing his dog.
According to police and Bedford Municipal Court records, Devonta Staten appeared in court Friday and bond was set at $2,500. He is due back in front of a judge Wednesday.
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'The video is really difficult to watch,' said Bedford Heights Police Chief Michael Marotta. 'No animal should ever be treated like this. Very disturbing.'
The incident happened May 7 at an apartment complex in Bedford Heights.
On the video, Staten can be seen walking in the stairwell carrying the dog, he then throws her down on the floor. The dog tries to run a way but a few seconds later, Staten is seen dragging her and then throwing her against the wall.
'No animal regardless if they misbehave or made a mistake should be treated in that kind of fashion ,' the chief said. He added, police became aware of the incident after someone reviewing the video at the apartment complex called officers.
The 2-year-old pit bull mix is named India. Police took her to a veterinarian and she is expected to make a full recovery.'Based on what happened she could have sustained very serious injuries,' said Assistant Police Chief Ken Hatcher Jr. 'It's more of a blessing than anything.'
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India is now at the shelter and officials say she is doing well.
Officers say it will be up to the court to determine if Staten will lose custody of India. Police said they hope India can be put up for adoption.
'We would like her to go to a loving home,' Marotta said. 'She was eating food out of our officers hands. She is very sweet. She deserves a home with someone that will care for her and take good care of her.'
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