Crime & Safety
Pittsburgh-Area Man Charged With Killing, Torturing Puppies
A Pittsburgh-area man allegedly killed one puppy and tortured three others, according to Pennsylvania State Police.
WASHINGTON COUNTY, PA ? A Canton Township man is facing felony charges after Pennsylvania State Police found a puppy dead and three others severely injured inside plastic bags inside a garbage can.
Franklin Donley, 53, has been charged with aggravated cruelty to animals - causing death; aggravated cruelty to animals - torture; cruelty to animals and neglect of animals.
State police said they were called to Beacon Avenue in Canton around 9:30 a.m. Sunday when neighbors said they heard dogs crying from inside the trash can. Troopers found four pitbull-like puppies tied up in grocery bags inside the can. One was dead and three others had severe injuries to their legs.
Find out what's happening in Pittsburghfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
The surviving puppies were taken to an area vet for surgery.
State police humane officer and the Washington County Humane Society are investigating.
Find out what's happening in Pittsburghfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Donley is being held in the Washington County Jail. He faces a preliminary hearing on Oct. 28.
Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.