Suffolk man charge with animal neglect

SUFFOLK, Va. (WAVY) - An animal neglect investigation led to the arrest of a Suffolk man. Officers say Amos Nelson, 48, moved to another city and left two pets behind. One of the pets became a 10 On Your Side "Pet of the Week."

Officers arrested Nelson Tuesday.

Suffolk spokesperson Debbie George told WAVY.com, "He has been charged with one count of animal neglect and two counts of providing inadequate care."

The investigation dates back to January 26. Animal Control officers said they received a tip Nelson had abandoned a Pit Bull and a Rottweiler at a home on Indian Trail Road.

"They learned from their investigation the electricity In the home had been turned off in late November. [Nelson] had left the residence approximately a month before they ever responded," George said. "The animals appeared to be thin and there was urine and feces all over the house... There was water in the residence and there was food actually in the residence, but it was in a Rubbermaid container so the animals did not have access to it."

Animal control workers rescued both dogs and discovered the pit bull actually belonged to someone else. He is now with his owners again.

When the Rottweiler Shady was healthy, she made her television debut on WAVY News 10 Midday as part of our "Pet of the Week" segment. During that February 22 appearance, an officer revealed she needed a home because of a court case. A viewer adopted her the same day.

Since Shady and the Pit Bull both recovered, Amos Nelson did not receive felony charges in the case. He has moved out of Suffolk and WAVY.com was not able to reach him for comment on this story. He is expected in court March 19.