TREGO COUNTY —WaKeeney Police Department received a possible cruelty to animals in progress call stating that a person was going to “shoot” and kill their dog in their backyard, according to a media release from the Trego County Sheriff.
Information was given to law enforcement stating the subject was armed with a .40 caliber handgun and had been consuming alcohol. The Trego Sheriff’s Office and Kansas Highway Patrol were called for an assist.
Upon investigation, law enforcement contacted the subject, who did not follow commands. Law enforcement initiated a less lethal means to subdue the suspect due to the subject's uncooperative behavior.
Steven Balock was taken into custody and is being held at the Trego County Jail on requested charges of felony cruelty to animals and felony interference with law enforcement.
The animal was taken to an emergency veterinary clinic and is being treated.