Baytown, Texas – A Texas man is facing animal cruelty charges for doing something to innocent puppies so heinous that at least two defense attorneys have refused to take his case. The authorities have identified 44-year-old Justin Reilly Belton as the man who knowingly and intentionally cut off the paws and tails of at least four puppies on or around June 17, 2023.

Representative Image of 4 puppies/Pixabay

Belton’s sadistic act resulted in one of the puppies being humanely euthanized, leaving the others “critically injured.” One of Belton’s neighbors told investigators they heard cries being heard at 3 a.m. with Belton walking outside and swearing. According to the police, the “Neighbor also alleged that [the defendant] has caused death to other animals.”

The allegations against Belton are so disturbing that a court hearing had to be moved because at least two defense attorneys refused to represent him.

Currently, the first court appearance is scheduled for 8/9/2023. Belton is charged with four counts of cruelty to a non-livestock animal; each count carries a bail amount of $25,000.

If you are sickened by Belton’s demented cruelty, please add your name to the petition today! He must be put away for as long as possible.

We the undersigned demand that Justin Reilly Belton be held accountable for his appalling acts of cruelty against four innocent puppies. We are petitioning for Belton to face the maximum punishment allowable by law for the four cruelty charges stemming from this sadistic behavior. At sentencing, we want to see Belton prohibited from owning or residing with animals and ordered to undergo extensive mental health treatment.

Individuals are presumed innocent until found guilty in a court of law. Animal Victory relies upon the authorities and the court system to determine guilt or innocence.

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Update 9/29/2023: Justin Reilly Belton has a new court arraignment scheduled on October 25, 2023.

Update 9/14/2023: Justin Reilly Belton’s court date for arraignment is 09/18/2023. 

Update 8/15/2023: The petition has been sent to the Judge, the District Attorney, and the Chief Prosecutor of the Animal Cruelty Division. 

Update 8/11/2023: Animal Victory has learned that court has been reset to August 22, 2023, at 8:30 am in Court #337 on the 15th at 1201 Franklin in the Criminal Court building.