Man Charged With Fatally Shooting Family Dog
ROYAL OAK (WWJ) - A Royal Oak man could face up to four years in prison, accused of fatally shooting the family dog.
The 39-year-old Billy Ray Scott was arraigned Monday at the 44th District Court, charged with one count of Animal Killing or Torture, which is a felony.
Royal Oak Police last Tuesday responded to a domestic dispute call at Scott's home on Florence Street. Police said couple had been arguing over the course of the night. The woman said she was woken up by Scott who claimed to have shot the dog. When the officers arrived, they discovered the 3-year-old Beagle mix dead in the back yard.
Scott was arrested for Cruelty to Animals and Discharging a Firearm in the City of Royal Oak.
Later, a necropsy Michigan State University animal health officials confirmed that the pet had been shot three times.
Police said alcohol was a factor in the incident.
Scott's next court date is set for Friday July 15 at 9 a.m..
