Robert Russell Albert Thompson charged in death of dog found chained without water

SOUTH CAROLINA -- Authorities say a Spartanburg man has been arrested after his dog died after being chained in the extreme heat with no water or shelter.

The Herald-Journal of Spartanburg reports 35-year-old Robert Russell Albert Thompson was charged Tuesday with felony ill treatment of animals.

Authorities say Environmental Enforcement Director Jamie Nelson responded Monday to an animal cruelty complaint at a residence on Hayne Street.

Nelson found a female pit bull mix crawling on her side, heavily panting and showing signs of extreme distress. Thompson admitted the dog was his before fleeing the scene. The dog later died.

Authorities say Thompson was located and arrested Tuesday.

Nelson says the dog came from a rescue organization in Anderson County, where it was placed after being previously abused.

(WSPA - June 24, 2015)