Fernandina Police Department reports abused dog found

Fernandina Beach Police Department
Press Release
Submitted by James T. Hurley, Chief
October 26, 2015 11:32 a.m.

Update:  The dog has been recovered by the Nassau Humane Society and is currently being treated by a local Veterinarian. The animal returned to the Dog Star Tavern and was being fed and cared for by employees. Thanks to animal lovers near and far for your expressions of concern. (Police Department Update)

Early this morning police responded to a disturbance call at the Palace Saloon and made contact with an individual, Jimmy Scott Pittman, who was reportedly causing a disturbance and would not leave the premises. Officers observed Pittman sitting near the Palace Saloon in bloody clothing, while Palace Saloon staff advised that Pittman’s dog was inside the saloon and was bleeding from wounds to his head. Pittman had a knife in his pocket and the knife had fur on it that was consistent with the fur from his dog.

The dog was found to have multiple lacerations to its ear, neck and face area. Pittman had no injuries but had blood and fur on his clothing and hands. Although Pittman denied harming the animal, the investigation revealed that Pittman did cause the injuries to the animal and he was arrested for animal cruelty.

Police contacted the Humane Society to take the animal for treatment, while the dog remained inside the Palace Saloon awaiting pick up. Unfortunately the dog was accidentally released and ran away from the immediate area. The dog is still missing and is described as a mixed breed bulldog, approximately 40 lbs., greyish fur, with natural black eye markings. The dog will have injuries to his neck and face area and is malnourished.

Police are requesting help from the public in finding this animal. If contact is made please contact the Fernandina Beach Police Department (904) 277-7342 or the Nassau County Humane Society (904) 491 – 0122.