Oakwood police say a Hall County father is facing a stack of charges after a blowup at a Harwood Road apartment left the family dog badly injured or possibly dead and a child hurt. On March 2, a woman called 911 and told officers the man grabbed the dog, slammed it against a wall, then later hurled a perfume bottle at her. Investigators say the man took off for work after the confrontation. He lived in the apartment with the woman and their three children.
What Oakwood police allege
According to WSB-TV, the Oakwood Police Department identified the suspect as Victor Lamar Scott. He faces charges that include cruelty to animals, simple battery under the Georgia Family Violence Act, simple assault against spouses, parents, step-parents or foster parents, and reckless conduct. The outlet reports that the incident unfolded at a home on Harwood Road and involved the woman and their three children, ages 10, 12 and 17. In a statement quoted by police, the victim said the dog hit the wall, fell and was not moving.
How Georgia law treats animal cruelty and family violence
Georgia law makes it a crime to cause physical pain, suffering or death to an animal, with tougher penalties possible for aggravated conduct or repeat offenses. The elements prosecutors look at in animal-cruelty cases are laid out in O.C.G.A. § 16-12-4, which can be reviewed on Justia. The Georgia Family Violence Act treats crimes such as simple battery between household members as acts of family violence and opens the door to protective orders and related remedies. It also allows officers to arrest without a warrant when they have probable cause. Definitions and scope for family-violence cases are set out in O.C.G.A. § 19-13-1, available at Justia.
Investigation status and next steps
WSB-TV reports that Oakwood police charged Scott after the March 2 call. The station notes that it is not clear from police information whether he was held in custody or if any court dates have been scheduled. The department has not released additional records on the dog’s condition or whether animal control or prosecutors will seek upgraded charges. Those decisions are often made after veterinary evaluations and further investigative review. Local prosecutors typically consider the available evidence, the severity of any injuries and any prior history when deciding how to file animal-cruelty and family-violence cases.
Who to contact
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911. For non-emergency questions about this case or to reach Oakwood police, visit the department’s contact page at the City of Oakwood: Oakwood Police Department.
