Arrest made in case of dog thrown in dumpster

Seymour police report that they have made an arrest in an animal abuse case from a few weeks ago. In early March, employees at a business in the 100 block of East Tipton Street discovered a small, black dog, which appeared to be a Chihuahua mix, had been dropped into a dumpster.

Police officers took the sludge-covered dog to the Jackson County Humane Society where they bathed the puppy, gave it food, water and a treat. After being cleaned up, police said the frightened pup was wagging its tail.

Seymour police are now reporting that 54-year-old Mark A. Hammond of Seymour has been arrested on preliminary charges of theft, and animal cruelty/with a prior offense.

Police are crediting Animal Control/Reserve Officer Chuck Heiss, and Officer Ryan Cherry with the success of the investigation. Cherry was one of the officers who helped rescue the dog in March.