On 5/31/14, at approximately 9:30 AM, officers with the Benton Police Department responded to Lyle Park to assist Benton Animal Control Officers on a call. They informed officers about a possible animal abuse incident that had taken place.
Detectives then launched an investigation into the allegation and made contact with the suspect in the case, later identified as Paul Daugherty (26 YOA). During the course of their investigation, evidence and information indicated that Daugherty had killed a dog belonging to him in January of this year. According to an opinion from a veterinarian, it appeared the dog suffered blunt force trauma consistent with being bludgeoned to death.
An arrest warrant was obtained for Daugherty, and he was located and arrested on June 24th without incident. He was transported to the Saline County Detention Facility for processing. This is still an on-going investigation and additional charges could be forthcoming.
Anybody with information related to this case is encouraged to contact the Benton Police Department at 501-778-1171 or 501-315-TIPS. Individuals also may send an anonymous crime tip about this incident to CRIMES (274637) with the keyword BNPD in the body of the text or go to www.crimereports.com to leave a tip.
Any suspects listed are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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