3 men face animal cruelty charges in 2024 killing of dog
Three men are facing animal cruelty charges in connection with the 2024 beating death of a dog that state police believe was intended to “send a message” in response to a reported sexual assault.
The dog was beaten and strangled, according to a necropsy report and court papers.
Troopers said Brian Scott Johnston, 56, of Belle Vernon; Joe Maione Jr., 48, of South Huntingdon; and Connor J. Repovz, 33, of South Huntingdon, went to the dog owner’s South Huntingdon home in September 2024 to “settle scores” regarding sexual assault allegations from the month before.
When the owner wasn’t there, the three suspects took the dog and threw it in a pool after beating it, a witness told investigators.
They are charged with aggravated cruelty to animals, theft, criminal mischief and criminal trespass. Preliminary arraignments and hearings are scheduled for Oct. 5. None of them could be reached. They didn’t have attorneys listed in online court records.
Nathaniel T. Johnston, 35, of Rostraver, is awaiting trial in connection with the sexual assault allegations from August 2024.
