Two men cited in bestiality cases involving dogs

Two Lee County men have been cited in separate bestiality cases, the department of Domestic Animal Services announced Tuesday.

Authorities cited Dennis E. Griffin, 57, of North Fort Myers, earlier this month for actions involving a pit bull named Zena last October at 4169 Pine Drop Lane. The citation said Griffin violated a county ordinance that makes it “unlawful for any person to molest or penetrate an animal or use the body parts of an animal for sexual gratification.”

Griffin must make an appearance in Lee County Civil Court and pay a $518 fee, according to the citation.

In a separate case, Thomas R. Linville, 58, of Lexington, Ky., was cited for “sexual activity involving animals,” specifically, a boxer/pit bull mix named Looney at 228 State St. on July 20.

Linville will have to report to Lee County Criminal Court and pay a $1,018 fee, the citation states.

Officials said both cases involved witnesses who reported the incidents. The citations did not give specific details about the acts of bestiality.

Animal Services was awarded custody of Griffin’s dog after the Lee County Sheriff’s Office issued a search warrant. Linville voluntarily surrendered his dog to Animal Services.

Animal Services considers crimes of this nature to be particularly cruel and disturbing and will investigate any leads for ultimate prosecution. Anyone with information regarding animal abuse is asked to call Animal Services at 239-533-7387. To be eligible to receive a reward for information leading to the arrest of the person(s) responsible, contact Southwest Florida Crime Stoppers at 1-800-780-TIPS. NapleNews