2nd defense attorney refuses to represent Baytown man accused of dismembering puppies after graphic details released

BAYTOWN, Texas – A court hearing for a Baytown man accused of cutting the paws and legs off at least four puppies has been moved after two defense attorneys declined to represent the suspect because the details of the case were too graphic, according to the District Attorney’s Office.

Justin Reilly Belton, 44, has been charged with four counts of cruelty to non-livestock animals.

He was booked into the Harris County Jail where his bond was set at $48,000.

According to court documents, on or around June 17, Belton knowingly and intentionally cut off the paws or legs of at least four different puppies with an unknown object.

Belton’s court hearing has been rescheduled to Wednesday. The court is trying to find him a new attorney.