An adult and a juvenile have been charged with animal cruelty after a video of them using a missing dog as target practice went viral.
Cops received a social media tip about a pup being mistreated June 29 prompting investigators to identify the suspect and recover the weapon that same day, according to Sheriff Jonathon Horton from Etowah County, Alabama.
The viral clip shows dog Bullet, who had been missing from his owner, tied to a tree with one of the suspects shooting at him.
Trenton Dewayne, 18, Sudberry of Gadsden, was arrested and charged with animal cruelty. He was taken to the local detention center to await bond.
The juvenile's identity was not released because of their age.
An adult and a juvenile have been charged with animal cruelty after a video of them using a missing dog as target practice went viral
In the video, the dog involved in the incident, Bullet was tied to a tree while one of the suspects shot at him. The adult suspect, 18-year-old Trenton Dewayne Sudberry (pictured) was arrested and charged with animal cruelty
Bullet was back home safe with his family as of Sunday night, according to WBRC. He is said to make a full recovery and in good spirits.
Bullet's owner Nicholas Jared Wayne told the outlet: 'Our baby has been safely returned, and all necessary measures have been taken with the individuals involved, currently being handled by Etowah County.'
'We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who shared our post and offered assistance.
Bullet is also said to make a full recovery, and is in good spirits despite the circumstances but is being checked out because of a noticeable limp, according to Wayne
'Our beloved dog, Bullet, is also back home and will receive a thorough examination due to a noticeable limp.
Sheriff Horton emphasized the importance of fighting for animal safety and justice
'It's unfortunate that animals are mistreated! Animals cannot speak up, so we have to make sure we do our best to take care of them and be their voice. Animal cases are just as important as any case we work,' Sheriff Horton told WBRC.
