MADISON, Ill. (AP) — A Metro East man is facing animal torture and cruelty charges for allegedly spraying a corrosive substance on a dog, causing chemical burns.
Madison County prosecutors say 45-year-old Rodney W. Johnson of Granite City, was charged Tuesday.
Prosecutors say the dog, a 10-year-old Maltese mix named Charlie, was dropped in critical condition at the Madison Police Department on Feb. 6. Police contacted an animal rescue agency in Granite City to get the dog emergency treatment for the burns. Madison city Detective Kyle Graham says the substance “completely ate away at the dog’s skin.” Investigators believe the burns were intentional.
Johnson was being held on $40,000 bail.