Friend,
On March 6, law enforcement officials in White County, Arkansas apprehended a suspect for the cruel act of nailing a dog to a plywood board at the intersection of Panther Creek and Fairview roads. This appalling act took place in November 2023, leading to a criminal investigation by the White County Sheriff's Department.
The investigation pointed to 36-year-old Franklin Scott Smith from Searcy as the suspect. Smith alleged that an "aggressive" dog was abandoned on his land. He contended that to "humanely euthanize" the dog, he shot it due to its hostility towards other animals, livestock, and his family members.
However, a post-mortem examination of the dog contradicted Smith's claim of a painless euthanasia. The autopsy revealed bullet injuries to the dog's nose and the back leg/hip area, with indications suggesting the dog was alive when it was nailed to the sign.
Sign the petition to demand the maximum penalty for Smith if he is convicted, Friend. We cannot let animal abusers escape justice and adequate penalties.
A representative from the local animal shelter shared with media that the dog was still attached to the board upon arrival at the shelter, and the staff encountered difficulties in removing the nails, noting significant blood presence. This led them to believe the event occurred on a Sunday morning, likening the act to a crucifixion due to the manner in which the dog was nailed to the board.
Franklin Scott Smith faces charges including aggravated cruelty to animals as well as charges for public indecency and disorderly behaviour. Smith's initial court appearance for his plea and arraignment is set for April 2 in the White County Circuit Court.
For all animals,
Team AWIP