Jacksonville man arrested on 19 counts of animal cruelty

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — The Lonoke County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO) announced on Saturday that a Jacksonville man was arrested after an investigation into animal cruelty.

Officials stated that 38-year-old Daniel Marlin Toennies was taken into custody on 19 counts of aggravated animal cruelty, a class D felony. 

A Facebook post by the LCSO stated that investigators were sent to the South Bend area of Lonoke County after they were given an anonymous tip concerning malnourished and neglected dogs.

They arrived and found 16 dogs alive and 3 dead, with the surviving dogs tied up with short chains and starving with no food or water.

“This case is heartbreaking, but it shows the power of working together,” Sheriff John Staley said. “Because someone cared enough to speak up, and because of the quick response from our investigators and rescue partners, these dogs now have a second chance at life. Animal cruelty will not be tolerated in Lonoke County. We are grateful to everyone who played a part in saving them.”

Officials stated that the dogs are now safe and receiving care.

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