An Allegany County man is facing felony charges after he allegedly shot and killed a dog...and then posted a picture of the deceased animal on Facebook...allegedly claiming credit for the kill.
At 8:05 p.m. Thursday, state police arrested Hans J. Gernstl, 48, of 9132 State Route 19 in Caneadea. He was charged with felony counts of aggravated cruelty to animals and tampering with evidence - conceal/destroy.
State police were called after the Caneadea Dog Control officer received a complaint that a man had posted a photo of a deceased dog on Facebook. In the post, the suspect allegedly claimed he had just shot the canine. State Police Investigators said Gernstl then attempted to dispose of the dog by tossing it into the Genesee River. The owner was notified and sought an arrest, according to police.
Gernstl was arraigned in Town of Caneadea court and was remanded to the Allegany County Jail on $5,000 cash bail or $10,000 bond. He is scheduled to return to court September 12th. Troopers said the investigation is continuing and additional charges are pending.
