Warrant issued for man in fatal dog stabbing

Authorities obtained an arrest warrant Wednesday for a Will County man accused of stabbing his dog, which later died while being treated for his injuries.

Robert G. Attebery, 38, may face up to three years in prison if he is convicted of felony animal cruelty charges for the death of his 10-year-old male pit bull.

Late Monday, police went to his home at 24511 S. Valley Drive in Channahon, about 40 miles southwest of Chicago, to assist paramedics with an ambulance call.

Authorities said Attebery called for an ambulance after suffering a dog bite. Upon investigation, police found the badly injured dog, named "Zephyrus", with multiple stab wounds.

Police brought the tan pit bull to a local veterinarian, but "Zep," as he was called, died during treatment.

"The dog had tried to run away and escape from his attacker," said Detective Sgt. Jeff Wold of the Channahon Police Department. "He was a full-size pit bull, but he was described by neighbors as gentle."

Attebery is accused of stabbing Zep about five times with a kitchen knife after the pooch bit him. Authorities obtained the $100,000 arrest warrant Wednesday on charges alleging felony and misdemeanor animal cruelty. Police planned to arrest Attebery later in the day.

"Allegations of animal cruelty are a matter of grave concern in my office," said Will County State's Attorney James Glasgow, who commended police for their thorough investigation. "I have always recognized that there is a link between the way someone treats an animal and the way in which that person treats fellow human beings."