Illegal Alien Arrested for Dog Torture in Las Vegas

A man illegally in the U.S. has been arrested for allegedly torturing dogs at an animal training facility in Las Vegas. The Department of Homeland Security announced his arrest, detailing the charges of animal torture against John Young Cotter Johnston, 38.

Concerns about abuse at the Working Dogs of Nevada Training Facility emerged in February. A woman, who had applied for a job there, recorded footage of Johnston’s interactions with the dogs.

After these allegations surfaced, local authorities executed a search warrant at the facility, leading to the removal of 35 dogs on April 1. Johnston was subsequently arrested and faced four felony counts, including intentionally torturing or maiming animals.

Another individual, Tabatha Berube, 32, was also arrested with similar charges. On Tuesday, DHS revealed that Johnston entered the U.S. illegally after overstaying his visa since February 2022. After his arrest, he was placed in federal custody by Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

Some disturbing footage aired by KTNV-TV showed Johnston kicking and pulling the dogs. Other recordings showed him using a shock collar and swinging a dog by its leash, prompting outrage from officials.

Acting Assistant Secretary Lauren Biss did not hold back her condemnation, stating, “This disgusting criminal tortured dogs at the shelter where he worked.” She emphasized the importance of collaboration among local leaders to keep such offenders off the streets.

The woman who documented the abuse later adopted two of the dogs. Reflecting on her experience, she said it was horrifying to see them suffer under such treatment. She felt compelled to capture evidence despite the fear of intervening at the moment.