Steuben man found guilty for his role in dog's death

A Steuben man has been found guilty of several charges related to the death of a dog.

24-year-old Justin Chipman is one of two men who were accused of torturing and killing Franky, a Winter Harbor man's dog.

Chipman was convicted of burglary, theft, unauthorized use of property, criminal mischief and aggravated cruelty to animals.

Franky's owner, Phillip Torrey says when he returned home from a concert last summer he found Franky missing and his SUV damaged.

District Attorney Matt Foster testified, saying he and his wife found Franky's body washed up on shore and that the dog was mangled and had bullet holes in its throat.

"It's extremely telling that Phil and Kelly reached out to Mr. Chipman after the body was discovered and asked for Mr. Chipman's help in locating the dog. Mr. Chipman would not respond."

"How the dog got into the bag and into the water and onto Mr. Foster's beach is unknown. It wasn't even determined what kind of bullet was used to kill this dog, what the weapon was, or who had a weapon. There is just too many unanswered questions that calls for too much speculation."

"It's like a weight taken off your chest. This is a huge step for animals. Not only have the laws changed but also people know, the word is out. Don't be mean to animals, don't kill animals."

38-year-old Nathan Burke of Hancock is also charged in the case and has pled not guilty.

His trial has not been scheduled.

Chipman awaits sentencing and is free on bail.