A Gainesville man has been embroiled in controversy and legal trouble after Hall County authorities arrested him on charges of bestiality and distributing obscene materials. The suspect, identified as 22-year-old Justin Nicholas Watson, was apprehended subsequent to an extensive investigation that stemmed from a Snapchat video wherein Watson allegedly recorded himself engaging in sexual acts with a dog. Following his arrest last Friday, Watson has since made bond and been released the next day.
As first reported by Fox5 Atlanta, Watson was charged with felony bestiality and misdemeanor distribution of obscene materials, his unfavorable actions coming to light after he sent the incriminating video via Snapchat to at least three individuals. The initial complaint surfaced at the Lumpkin County Sheriff’s Office, which subsequently partnered with Hall County officials upon realization the alleged crime occurred in their jurisdiction. Arrested, Watson's dog was taken into custody providing a home to the animal, said authorities, unharmed during the incident.
Investigators from the Hall County Sheriff's Office began the local phase of the investigation after having received the case details from their Lumpkin counterparts on July 31. During the course of their work, a search warrant for Watson's Snapchat account was executed on August 14, lending further credence to the charges, as reported by AccessWDUN. The search of Watson's residence on Joe Chandler Road ensued, culminating in the seizure of evidence, Watson's subsequent interview with detectives, and his arrest.
The dog did not sustain long-term physical injuries from the ordeal and is now in the care of Hall County Animal Services. Watson’s legal representation remains unclear, according to Fox5 Atlanta.
