Indiana man faces animal cruelty charges after dog abandoned on trailer
- Indiana authorities received reports about a dog being transported in unsafe conditions on a trailer.
- The dog was later found abandoned near a residence, prompting an investigation into its owner.
- Erik McClinton is facing potential animal cruelty charges following the incident where the dog was found in distress.
In Indiana, authorities intervened in a distressing case involving a large dog that was discovered in a precarious situation on February 11, 2025. The Indiana State Police were alerted by a concerned citizen who captured video footage of the dog inside a cage being transported on an unsecured trailer behind an SUV traveling at high speeds on the Borman Expressway. The dog, who was exposed to freezing temperatures, seemed unsettled and was understandably skittish as it was being hauled down the highway. Upon receiving the report, officers from Indiana State Police swiftly conducted an investigation. They managed to locate the SUV and the distressed dog later abandoned outside a home in Gary, Indiana. It was revealed that the dog had been left near the previous residence of the vehicle’s owner, 37-year-old Erik McClinton. The conditions surrounding the situation raised alarm bells, prompting the police to take immediate action to ensure the dog's safety. On the day of the incident, temperatures were reported to be around 26 degrees Fahrenheit. The concern for the dog's well-being was heightened as it was left without proper shelter and security in a kennel. Thanks to the quick thinking of a passerby named Ryan Jackson, who recorded the incident and promptly contacted the authorities, the dog was rescued and placed in a foster home for proper care. Jackson expressed his outrage and concern for the animal, emphasizing that he never intended to get anyone in trouble but was motivated by compassion for the animal’s suffering. Following the investigation, police identified Erik McClinton as the dog's owner. They conducted an interview and gathered evidence to support their recommendation for animal cruelty charges against him. This incident sparked public outrage, with many advocating for the dog’s welfare and future. While the legal process is ongoing, the dog, now named Midnight, has garnered significant support from individuals interested in adopting him, although he will remain in his foster home until the case is resolved. This case highlights the pressing issue of animal cruelty and the responsibilities of pet owners in ensuring the safety and well-being of their animals.