CHARLESTON, W.Va. — A man accused of killing a female pit bull in April pleaded not guilty Monday to felony animal cruelty.
John Copening Jr. allegedly killed a female pit bull, leaving the animal’s body hanging from a tree near Madison Street. According to a humane officer, neighbors called about hearing a squealing dog.
Copening’s ex-girlfriend, Sydney Delaney, told police she drove Copening to Jacksonville, Florida, but told them the wrong address.
Both Copening and Delany turned themselves into authorities.
Copening’s trial is scheduled to begin Sept. 4. The judge presiding over the case ordered a mental evaluation.