MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) – Mary Rivers, 72 and Tavoris Gallery, 18, are now charged with two counts of first-degree cruelty to a dog, which is considered a Class C felony.
Rivers and Gallery were initially charged with misdemeanors after allegedly throwing two miniature pinschers off Dog River Bridge, which stands 73-feet above water, on Dec. 28.
However, after a thorough review of the case by Animal Services, Mobile Police and the District Attorney’s Office, authorities said their actions showed clear intent to harm the animals.
“After speaking to the district attorney’s office, who concurred in the agreement, the charges were elevated to felonies,” said Robert Bryant, director of Animal Services for the City of Mobile.
Many people wanted to know why.
FOX10 News obtained court documents revealing Rivers allegedly instructed Gallery to throw the dogs off the bridge because they had eaten her chickens while she way away.
The documents also indicate Rivers is Gallery’s mother.
On. Jan 1, the two suspects were led out of the Mobile Police First Precinct.
Gallery quick to speak after FOX10 News Reporter Natalie Williamson asked if he had anything to say.
“She wanted to kill the dogs,” Gallery responded.
Rivers remained silent, keeping her head down.
Animal Services said the dogs are in good health and spirits and are being cared for by their foster family, getting the love and care they deserve.
Bryant said Animal Services receives an estimated 400 animal cruelty complaints ever year.
Gallery and Rivers are scheduled to be in court Jan. 3 for a bond hearing.
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