YORK, Pa. — Note: The video is from August 24, 2023.
Authorities in York have filed charges against a suspect accused of severely beating a German Shepherd puppy with a stick last year.
Terrell Dushun Harris, 35, of the 600 block of S. Albemarle Street, is charged with cruelty to animals and aggravated cruelty to animals following a recommendation by the York County Investigating Grand Jury, District Attorney Dave Sunday announced this week.
The puppy, now named "Chance," eventually recovered from his injuries, but suffered the permanent loss of several teeth and blindness to his right eye.
He was adopted last October by York City Police Officer Matthew Tamanosky, who was one of the officers who helped rescue the dog after responding to the initial police call on August 23, 2023.
According to evidence presented to the grand jury, police were dispatched to the 400 block of South Pershing Avenue in the city at about 9 p.m. that night. The officers found the puppy, which was severely injured.
Harris was identified as a suspect through investigative practices and witness testimony, Sunday said.
A medical provider testified that the dog was generally malnourished, was hemorrhaging from his mouth, had suffered a concussion and was not able to lift his head. The dog had bilateral jaw fractures, a broken eye socket, and a broken left foreleg as well, according to testimony.
“Thanks to everyone for stepping up and getting involved: to our community for speaking up; to the Officers for being so thorough and considerate; to those veterinarians and SPCA staff for fighting to save his life; and the District Attorney’s Office for going that extra mile to see that justice is served," York City Police Commissioner Mike Muldrow said. "The actor is being held accountable and Chance is now safe in a loving home. Well done to everyone involved in giving Chance another chance."
Harris was apprehended Wednesday afternoon by members of the U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force. Harris, who was free on $150,000 bail in relation to a previous active case against him, had his bail revoked, authorities said.
A preliminary hearing has been scheduled for February 7, court records show.