Ohio: Girard man John Giordano, 51, charged with punching dog

OHIO -- Girard Police have charged a man with animal cruelty after they say they received a video from a concerned citizen of him punching his dog.

Girard Police Capt. John Norman said the department began its investigation Tuesday.

“The video’s the evidence. You know, it’s disturbing to watch it, obviously,” he said. “It was very disturbing to watch it, and that’s why we took it serious and we investigated through the night.”

 

 

 

Police identified John Giordano, 51, as the man in the video. He has been charged with a misdemeanor count of animal cruelty.

Giordano had an initial court appearance Tuesday and pleaded not guilty. He was released on the condition that he give up his dog Hazard to the Animal Welfare League of Trumbull County.

Wednesday evening, Hazard is being cared for at a veterinarian’s office, where he’s being checked over for any injuries. After he’s released from there, he’ll be brought back to the Animal Welfare League.

Hazard will remain at the Animal Welfare League throughout the duration of the case, unless Giordano surrenders his ownership prior to its completion.

(WYTV - Feb 17, 2016)