Suspect sought in animal abuse case

The Lewis County Sheriff's Office is seeking a suspect charged with animal cruelty after he has failed to appear for multiple related court hearings.

Jessie G. Pegram, 21, of Ethel, had been arrested in November of 2012 for allegedly punching a five-month-old German shepherd puppy in the face, with deputies being told he had also thrown the animal against a tree. When he was arrested on the 100 block of Oyler Rd., he was described as intoxicated, and a veterinarian exam of the puppy revealed he had suffered injuries consistent with witness statements regarding the incident.

Pegram is believed to be presently residing in the Portland/Vancouver area, and those with information regarding this suspect are encouraged to call the Lewis County Sheriff's Office at (360) 740-1266 or, to leave an anonymous tip for possible cash reward, Lewis County Crime Stoppers at 1-800-748-6422.