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Owner Charged With Murder After Dogs Maul Man to Death
19 Dec
Summary
- Owner indicted for second-degree murder and 10 felony animal abuse counts.
- Victim sustained severe injuries from a pack of 17 dogs.
- Charges followed a comprehensive investigation by local authorities.
Elaina Bryant, a 56-year-old resident of Thomasville, North Carolina, has been indicted and taken into custody on charges of second-degree murder and 10 counts of felony animal abuse. The charges stem from a fatal incident on November 18, where Michael Bodenheimer, 73, was found dead in his front yard. Authorities stated Bodenheimer sustained severe injuries consistent with an attack by a large pack of canines.
The Davidson County Sheriff's Office conducted a comprehensive investigation, identifying Bryant as the owner of 17 dogs. These animals, described as pit bull-mixed breeds, were subsequently captured and euthanized. Necropsies on the dogs and an autopsy on Bodenheimer confirmed the canines' involvement in his death. Bryant is accused of gross negligence in the care and control of the animals.
Bryant was formally charged on December 17 after a Grand Jury returned an indictment. She is currently held at the Davidson County Detention Center with a $500,000 secured bond. Her next court appearance is scheduled for January 5 in Davidson County Superior Court. Bodenheimer's family has requested privacy while they grieve their loss, expressing confidence in the legal process.
