Animal cruelty caught on camera as Florida man drags dog behind vehicle

NORTH FORT MYERS, Florida — Shocking video shows a man dragging his dog behind a pickup truck, leaving the animal severely injured in a disturbing case of animal cruelty.

According to the Lee County Sheriff’s Office, the incident happened at the intersection of Bartholomew Drive and Laurel Lane, where a witness spotted a black Ford F-150 dragging an Australian cattle dog along the road. The witness recorded the incident, confronted the driver, and called 911.

Deputies quickly located and stopped the vehicle, identifying the driver as 69-year-old Johnny Lee Davis. Investigators said they found blood throughout both the interior and exterior of the truck, believed to belong to the dog.

Authorities later executed a search warrant at Davis’ home, where they found the dog, named Ruthie, suffering from severe injuries. The animal was rescued and rushed for emergency veterinary treatment.

Despite the trauma, officials say Ruthie survived and is continuing to fight.

Davis was arrested and charged with aggravated animal cruelty. Authorities say he could face further consequences, including being placed on an animal abuse registry if convicted.