BEDFORD HEIGHTS, OH — As reported by Fox 8 News, a Bedford Heights man has been charged with felony cruelty to animals after a disturbing incident involving his dog was captured on video. Police say the abuse took place on May 7 at an apartment complex, where surveillance footage reportedly showed 26-year-old Devonta Staten throwing his dog, a 2-year-old pit bull mix named India, to the ground and later against a wall. The footage led apartment staff to notify authorities.
Staten appeared in Bedford Municipal Court on Friday, where his bond was set at $2,500. He is scheduled to return to court on Wednesday. Police described the video as difficult to watch and emphasized that no animal should be subjected to such treatment.
India was immediately taken into custody by officers and brought to a veterinarian. Despite the severity of the incident, she is expected to recover fully. Police say it was fortunate she did not suffer more serious injuries.
India is now safe at a local shelter and is reportedly doing well. Officials stated that the court will decide whether Staten will lose custody of the dog, but they hope India can eventually be placed in a loving, permanent home.
