LAS VEGAS — Two individuals have been charged with felony animal cruelty following the removal of 35 dogs from a Las Vegas dog training facility. The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department’s Animal Cruelty Section executed a search warrant at Working Dogs of Nevada on April 1, supported by City and County Animal Protection Services.
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The investigation commenced in early March after detectives received reports regarding potentially abusive training practices at the facility. During the search, police found 35 dogs on the premises. However, The Animal Foundation reported that 36 dogs were removed, with three dogs being reclaimed by their owners shortly after the intervention.
John Johnstone, 38, was arrested on four felony counts related to willful or malicious torture, maiming, or mutilation of an animal kept for companionship. Tabitha Berube, 32, was arrested on one count of the same charge. Both have since been released on bond, and a status check on the criminal complaint is scheduled for April 29 at the Las Vegas Justice Court.
Videos acquired by local media purportedly show disturbing practices inside the training facility, including an instance where a dog was kicked and dragged while attempting to escape. The individual who recorded the video, concerned for the dogs' welfare after just two days of employment at the facility, felt compelled to gather evidence for law enforcement.
A woman who previously reported suspected abuse at the facility shared that she adopted two dogs from the location, including one depicted in the video.
As of now, the facility is closed, with a sign instructing the public to contact animal control for concerns. An emergency suspension of the business license has been issued to the owner. The dogs are currently being cared for by The Animal Foundation, which is unable to disclose details about their condition due to the ongoing legal proceedings.
Pet owners seeking to reclaim their dogs are advised to contact Animal Protection Services to facilitate the release process. If the dogs are not reclaimed within seven days, their future is uncertain due to the pending court case. If approved by Animal Protection Services, the dogs will undergo evaluation before possible adoption.
Anyone with information regarding this case should reach out to the LVMPD Animal Cruelty Section at 702-828-2907 or via email at [email protected]. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Crime Stoppers at 702-385-5555.