NEWS10 ABC: Albany, New York News, Weather, SportsCharges upgraded to felony for duct taping dog

ARGYLE, NY - The owner of the dog named "Chubby" found duct taped and dumped on the side of the road in Washington County is now facing upgraded charges after the indictment was unsealed Thursday.

Chubby, the Malamut-mix, was euthanized after a Town of Argyle highway employee found him on the side of Coach Road with his mouth and legs duct taped earlier in February.

Police arrested the dog's owner, Louis Hart, and his friend, Shane Morehouse of Fort Edward, for the abuse. On Thursday, the charges against Hart were upgraded to one count of Cruelty to Animals, a felony charge, and one count of Abandonment, a misdemeanor.

Authorities say Morehouse admitted to doing this, telling them that the dog belonged to a friend, discovered to be Hart, who could no longer care for him. Hart apparently could not afford the vet bills associated with the care. State police say Morehouse told Hart the dog would be released in an open area to die naturally. It is not clear why Morehouse left the dog like this.

Chubby was taken to a local veterinarian and treated for his injuries after he was found. Unfortunately it was also discovered that the dog was suffering from an extensive unrelated illness and the animal had to be euthanized.

Hart was released on his own recognizance following the arraignment Thursday afternoon. His next court date is April 12 in Washington County Court.