A suspect in a fatal animal cruelty case has been arrested in Arkansas and extradited to Larimer County.

On August 29, 2022, the Larimer County Sheriff’s Office received a report that a man had attacked two dogs in a Wellington yard. One of the dogs died at the scene and the other was seriously injured. A community tip led investigators to identify the suspect as David Thompson (DOB 09/03/1977) of Scotland, Arkansas. Thompson had no prior connection to the home, residents, or animals.

After an extensive investigation, which included analyzing forensic and digital evidence and traveling to Arkansas to interview the suspect, LCSO obtained a warrant for Thompson. In late November 2024, he was arrested in Arkansas and extradited to Larimer County on two counts of Aggravated Animal Cruelty (F6). Thompson was issued a $15,000 cash/surety bond by the Larimer County Court.

“This was a disturbing case that robbed a family of their beloved pet. Our team put considerable effort into identifying the person responsible and building a strong, evidence-based case. While it can’t reverse the loss, I hope this arrest brings some measure of comfort,” said Captain Bobby Moll, who leads the LCSO Investigations division.

LCSO would like to thank the Van Bruen County Sheriff's Office and North Little Rock Police Department for their assistance with the case.

A booking photo is attached. All charges are merely an accusation, and defendants are presumed innocent until, and unless, proven guilty.

Original News Release: 8/30/22

Public’s Help Sought to Identify Aggravated Animal Abuse Suspect

On the night of 8/29/2022 between 10:30 pm and 11:10 pm, a man attacked two dogs in a fenced yard off of 6th Street near the McDonalds in Wellington. One of the dogs died during the attack, and the other was seriously injured but is expected to recover. LCSO is working to identify the suspect who was described as a white adult male about 5’8” to 6’02” who was wearing a dark-colored t-shirt and light-colored pants. The suspect is believed to be associated with a motorcycle bearing an Arkansas license plate. A security camera image of the suspect is included.

Anyone with information regarding this incident or any crime is asked to call Investigator Johnston at 970-498-5509.