Franklin County Man Charged With Felony Animal Cruelty in Mt. Airy

In Habersham County, authorities have charged a Franklin County man with felony animal cruelty for allegedly beating a puppy to death.

It happened Friday at a home on Dewberry Lane in Mount Airy.

According to Habersham County Animal Control, when they arrived, they found a four-month old Pitbull or Pitbull mix puppy dead behind the house.

A necropsy by a local veterinarian determined the puppy died of massive internal injuries, according to Habersham County Animal Control Director Madi Nix.

22-year old Ryan Drake Moore of Canon was arrested and taken to the Habersham County jail.

Moore is charged with felony aggravated cruelty to animals.

If convicted, he faces up to five years in prison, a $15,000 fine or both.