At approximately 12:39 p.m. on April 3, police officers from the Noblesville Police Department responded to Village Pantry, located at 710 Westfield Road, Noblesville, in reference to a report of animal cruelty.
Officers arrived on the scene and spoke with a witness who stated that he observed a male subject allegedly beating and kicking a dog while in the parking lot of Village Pantry. The witness indicated that the subject drove off just prior to police arriving. A short time later, officers were notified that the subject and the dog were possibly at the All-Star Veterinary Clinic in Westfield. NPD’s Community Service Officer responded to the scene and continued the investigation.
After speaking with additional witnesses who allegedly observed the incident, interviewing staff at the veterinary clinic, and inspecting the injuries to the dog, a criminal investigation for animal cruelty was initiated. The case was ultimately referred to the Hamilton County Prosecutor’s Office for consideration for charges. A subsequent warrant was issued for the subject of this investigation.
Harris
On April 29, the suspect, Theodore Harris, Jr., 62, Noblesville, was located and arrested without incident on the arrest warrant. He was transported and booked at the Hamilton County Jail on the following charges:
- Cruelty to an Animal – I.C. 35-46-3-12(c) a Level 6 Felony
- Cruelty to an Animal – I.C. 35-46-3-12 (b) a Class A Misdemeanor
The dog remains at the All-Star Veterinary Clinic where it has underwent numerous surgeries and remains in critical condition. Animal care cost are currently in excess of $9,000.
A charge is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.