Longview Man Sentenced after His Dog Was Found Frozen

LONGVIEW — A Longview man has been sentenced to one year in prison after pleading guilty to animal cruelty charges. Patrick Allen Johnson, 28, was arrested in February 2014 after his pitbull, named Chico, was left chained to a tree, January 7. According to a report filed by police officer Debra Stiles, Chico was found dead by Longview Animal Control Officer Chris Kemper.

“The dog was frozen rock solid,” the report read. “His body was extremely thin and it appeared he had not been taken care of. He had old wounds on his front paw and his butt. It should be mentioned that a cold front came into the area approximately two days ago and the temperature has not been above freezing in over 24 hours.” Melissa Nicole Dennis was also arrested in connection with the crime. Her trial is set to begin September 15.