Suspect in “puppy throwing” incident arrested

Cornville AZ (June 17, 2014) – On June 16, 2014, 27-year-old Joseph Kennedy from Cornville was arrested for 2 felony counts of Cruelty to Animals, along with Possession of Dangerous Drugs and Paraphernalia.

The original incident, as reported last week by Yavapai Silent Witness, occurred just before 9 AM on June 11, 2014. At that time, witnesses called YCSO after seeing a man throw a puppy from a vehicle on Cornville Road travelling approximately 50 miles per hour. The puppy was recovered and treated at a local emergency vet clinic. The dog suffered significant neurological issues as a result of incident.

Following media reports, YCSO received several calls and Kennedy was identified as a suspect.  Deputies began an earnest search for Kennedy and late afternoon yesterday, a YCSO deputy spotted Kennedy in the back of a truck stopped in a Cottonwood convenience store parking lot. As the truck began moving, Kennedy ducked down into the bed hoping the deputy would not see him, but it was too late. The truck was stopped and Kennedy was detained. During the arrest, Kennedy became uncooperative and after deputies overcame his resistance, he was handcuffed.

A search of Kennedy’s property revealed 3 personal use packages of methamphetamine and associated paraphernalia.

During follow-up on this case, deputies learned Kennedy had been in a fight with his apparent girlfriend the day of the incident. Kennedy was “distraught,” and while riding with others in a friend’s car, he tossed the dog from the vehicle because he didn’t care for the animal. At the time, Kennedy’s 8 month old baby was also in the car. Following Kennedy’s arrest yesterday, deputies asked him where his son could be found so they could check on his welfare. Kennedy refused to provide the location. Using other sources, deputies located the child in Cottonwood under the care of a baby sitter. The child was ok. Children’s Protective Services were notified and took custody of the baby.

Kennedy was booked at the Camp Verde Detention on the indicated charges and remains in-custody on a $17,500 bond.

YCSO would like to thank the media and public for their assistance with this case.

YCSO Animal Control Officers have monitored the care and follow-up given to the dog and report she is now doing well in a foster home.  

Citizens can contact the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office with information or questions at 928-771-3260 or the YCSO website: www.ycsoaz.gov