NORTH LIBERTY, Iowa (AP) — North Liberty police say a 25-year-old man has been charged with animal torture, accused of hurting a cat.
Gibson Neblett was released Friday, Oct. 7, from the Johnson County Jail, the Iowa City Press-Citizen reports. An Iowa City phone number listed for him appeared not to be working Saturday. Court records show Neblett is representing himself in the case.
Police say Neblett abused a cat named Melvin in August and September. The cat’s owner told police Neblett was the only person with Melvin when the injuries occurred.
Police say the cat was taken to a vet on Sept. 3 dragging his hind legs. X-rays revealed broken ribs and hips. The cat also suffered severe soft tissue damage that required surgery. Police say the cat is expected to fully recover.
