An Ottumwa man was arrested for disposing of a dog in a dumpster last week, sparking community outrage.
The Heartland Humane Society’s (HHS) Facebook page shared footage of an individual throwing an object into a dumpster outside of a closed business in Ottumwa. The object was a live 15-year-old elderly chihuahua named Tank, according to the organization.
Court records say Virgil Johnston, 63, disposed of the dog on August 27th at approximately 2:18 AM at the 800 block of Richmond Avenue in Ottumwa. His actions were observed on video surveillance, according to the criminal complaint. Heartland Humane Society says Tank was turned over to Animal Control and is currently in the care of HHS.
Johnston was charged with animal neglect – no visible injuries and abandonment of cats and dogs – no injury. Both offenses are simple misdemeanors.
Johnston pleaded guilty to the charges. He was sentenced to 30 days in the Wapello County Jail, according to HHS.
