Animal abuse accusations were so horrific on-call attorneys refused to represent defendant: report

Animal abuse allegations against a Texas man were so horrific that two attorneys refused to represent him, Law&Crime reported.

Prosecutors say Justin Reilly Belton, 44, brought six puppies to an animal hospital and the vet found that four of the dogs were missing limbs and tails. One of the pups had to be euthanized, according to the report.

“[Belton] changed story multiple times attempting to explain what happened to the animals,” authorities said.

One of Belton’s neighbors told investigators he had around 12 animals and they'd heard cries around 3 a.m., and seen Belton walking outside and swearing.

“Neighbor also alleged that [the defendant] has caused death to other animals,” police said, according to the report.

Speaking to Law&Crime, Harris County District Attorney’s Office public affairs officer John Donnelly said two private attorneys on the on-call list refused to take the case because of the nature of the charges, causing the court to reschedule Belton’s arraignment.

Belton has a criminal history that includes stalking and harassment, Law&Crime reported.

Read the full report over at Law&Crime.