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Kentucky Man Accused of Dog Arson, Wife Threats
25 May
Summary
- Man accused of threatening wife with a handgun.
- Allegedly set wife's two dogs on fire with accelerant.
- Dog arson case linked to domestic violence issues.
In Louisville, Kentucky, Bobby Atkinson, 37, has pleaded not guilty to charges including animal torture and terroristic threatening following a domestic dispute. The incident allegedly occurred on May 21, 2026, when Atkinson's wife discovered another woman in their home.
According to an arrest citation, Atkinson confronted his wife, allegedly brandishing a handgun and threatening to shoot her. His wife then left with their children to obtain an emergency protective order before returning to retrieve medication.
Later, upon a second return to the home prompted by news of another woman expecting his child, the wife reported hearing a smoke alarm and smelling burning. She found her two dogs, Brooklyn and Seven, allegedly covered in ash and suffering from burns, with signs of accelerant on their fur.
Both dogs received treatment at Louisville Metro Animal Services. Atkinson was arrested on May 21, 2026, facing charges including two counts of torture of a dog or cat and two counts of cruelty to animals. His bond was raised to $50,000. Authorities and advocates noted the link between animal abuse and domestic violence.
