Man charged for throwing dog in fire

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Suspect on “Mission from God to rid world of evil.”

A horrific story unfolded in Sugar Tree on Sunday evening around 6:30 p.m. when a female Labrador Retriever mix was thrown into a fire and the attacker threatened people in an alleged drug-induced stupor, according to an eyewitness report.

Faye Moore and her husband Ricky were burning a stump in their backyard near Birdsong Rd. Her nephew, Cody Lawson was also helping. Moore said she was in her kitchen when Lawson alerted that a man was dousing a dog with gasoline. Moore immediately ran outside and saw Cody Townsend, 29, throw a black dog onto their burning stump. The family jumped into action and simultaneously removed the dog, while others chased the man out of the yard.

Moore stated that Lawson said he witnessed Townsend dragging the dog towards the property with a baseball bat slid under the dog’s collar.

After Townsend was chased away, he reportedly threatened at least one more person before being apprehended, according to Sheriff Kenny Christopher. Christopher said Townsend had broken into a home on Timber Lane, where the dog was housed. He reportedly returned to the home and exited holding a Bible in his hand.

It was reported that Townsend said that he was on a mission from God to rid the world of evil.

The Moore’s took the dog to Camden Animal Clinic where Veterinarian Elizabeth Paschall met them and immediately started evaluating her injuries. The dog, later identified as “Sissy” was treated for blunt force trauma to her head and eye area and multi-degree burns on the underside of her body.

Townsend was arrested and charged with aggravated burglary, aggravated animal cruelty, and trespassing.

Paschall said Sissy will require extensive care and her family may have difficulty paying the medical bills. Those interested in helping Sissy, can call Camden Animal Clinic at (731) 584-6475 or stop by the office at 1245 Hwy. 70 W. in Camden.

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