Outcry Over Savage Man's Severe Beating of Dog Grows Louder

A Savage man charged with felony animal cruelty made his first appearance at the Scott County Courthouse in Shakopee on Friday. Protestors gathered in front of the courthouse to demand justice, the Star Tribune reported.

Rudolph William Poppe, 71 was arrested after he beat his golden retriever, Millie, over the head with a sledgehammer in front of witnesses. He reportedly told police that the dog was old, had pooped on the floor, and needed to be put "out of its misery." The dog did not survive the severe injuries.

Poppe is also facing charges of disorderly conduct and obstructing the legal process, the paper reported.

Protestors organized through the Facebook pages Second Chance Animal Rescue and Justice 4 Millie, according to the Star Tribune.

Protestors met with signs outside the courthouse and later attended Poppe's first court appearance. 

“We’re out here pretty much to be the voice for Millie,” Shakopee resident Emily Randolph, a volunteer for 4 Paws told the paper. “We want to ensure that he’s getting punished to the full extent of the law.”

Poppe may not own dogs, have alcohol, or go back to his home as his wife has filed an order of protection against him.

Read the full story on the Star Tribune.

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