CAS wins custody of dog found severely emaciated; Owner convicted

CHARLESTON, SC (WCSC) - Charleston Animal Society officials have won custody of a 10-year-old mastiff named Miles Davis whose owner was convicted on Tuesday in connection to the dog's abuse.

CAS officials say Christian Fahnoe of James Island was convicted of misdemeanor animal neglect.

According to the CAS, Fahnoe was sentenced to 30 days in jail, which was suspended if he pays a $500 fine and reimburses CAS $1530 within six months for the medical care Miles received.

A press release by CAS states Miles had been living in a closet littered with garbage, glass and feces in Fahnoe's James Island home.

CAS officials say when Miles was rescued by Charleston Police officers, he weighed 75-pounds, when he should have weighed about 150-pounds. 

Miles was also dehydrated and had a serious skin condition and other ailments.

"Charleston Animal Society was in court today to be the voice for Miles and every other animal in our community," said Charleston Animal Society Director of Anti-Cruelty & Outreach Aldwin Roman, "the outpouring of support for Miles has been overwhelming."

According to the CAS, hundreds of people have stepped forward offering to adopt Miles and he will be placed in a new home as soon as he is healthy enough.

Under the intensive care of Charleston Animal Society, Miles has gained 23-pounds since late March. He's been on a regimented nutrition plan, overseen by Charleston Animal Society veterinarians.

"We care for animals like Miles every single day, and we currently have 80 adult dogs who need adopted," said Charleston Animal Society Director of Public Health and Spay/Neuter Initiatives Dr. Lucy Fuller, DVM, "If you want to so something meaningful for Miles, and all of the animals in our care, please adopt one of our adult dogs, or donate to our medical fund called 'Toby's Fund.'"

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