PD: Man killed pit bull puppy in anger

NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY) - Norfolk Police say a man became so angry with the mother of his child, he slammed her puppy to death Sunday afternoon.

Chris Amos with the Norfolk Police Department said officers and members of the Animal Protection Unit responded to the 900 block of Virgilina Avenue around 3:45 p.m. for a report of a dead 3-month-old pit bull.

Further investigation revealed 24-year-old Cornelius Marquez Bell took the puppy from the woman’s home and repeatedly slammed it to the ground, Amos said. The puppy died as a result. 

Amos said Bell's actions stemmed from his agitation toward the woman.

WAVY.com spoke with the woman, who wished not to be identified.

"I don't think it was intentional on his part," said the woman. "It is something that is within him that he needs to work on."

Bell reportedly fled the scene on foot and was located a short time later. He has been charged with cruelty to animals and is currently incarcerated at Norfolk City Jail.

If convicted, Bell faces a punishment of up to five years in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.