Ridgecrest, CA – A Kern County man is facing animal cruelty and firearm charges after deputies say he shot and killed his neighbor’s dog in a residential neighborhood Friday afternoon.
According to the Kern County Sheriff’s Office, deputies from the Ridgecrest Substation responded at approximately 12:50 p.m. on Friday, January 2, to the 1500 block of North Alford Street following a report of animal cruelty. The caller reported that a neighbor had shot and killed another neighbor’s dog, claiming the act was done in self-defense.
Deputies identified the suspect as Charles Pappe, 63, and located a deceased black-and-white dog with an apparent gunshot wound. Authorities said Pappe admitted to shooting the dog with a .45-caliber rifle. The firearm and spent casing were recovered at the scene.
Investigators determined that Pappe allegedly left the area after an initial dog attack, returned roughly 30 minutes later, retrieved a rifle, and shot the dog. Deputies said neither Pappe nor his dog showed signs of injury, and medical aid was not requested. Based on the investigation, authorities concluded the shooting did not meet the criteria for self-defense and was instead a premeditated act.
Pappe was arrested on charges of animal cruelty and negligent discharge of a firearm. A search warrant executed at his home led to the seizure of additional firearms and ammunition. He was booked into the Lerdo Jail.
Kern County Animal Control took custody of the deceased dog.
The Kern County Sheriff’s Office stated the investigation remains ongoing and emphasized its commitment to public safety and animal welfare. Anyone with information related to the case is urged to contact the Sheriff’s Office at (661) 861-3110 or Kern Secret Witness at (661) 322-4040. Anonymous tips can also be submitted at kernsheriff.org.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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