PEVELY, Mo. — The allegations against Michael Lott have sickened many in Jefferson County.
The 44-year-old Pevely man is accused of throwing a 3-month-old puppy out of a window at a hotel in Arnold, killing it.
"It disgusts me. Animals are like children. That should never happen, said Paul Pullen, who lives in Jefferson County.
"It's pretty sad. It's terrible that people can do that to an innocent animal," said Laura Camacho, another Jefferson County neighbor.
According to court papers, last October, Lott grabbed the sleeping pit bull puppy named "Bitty" from its owner's lap with the intention of "causing the owner emotional distress."
The two were arguing at the time.
The probable cause statement reveals within moments Lott threw the puppy out of a third-floor window.
Investigators say a second person standing in the hotel's parking lot witnessed the animal abuse.
"It's just not fair to do that to an innocent life," added Laura Camacho.
On Friday, prosecutors charged Lott with animal abuse, harassment and property damage.
Records reveal he's served prison in the past for forgery, receiving stolen property and stealing.
Prosecutors issued a warrant for Lott's arrest in the alleged animal abuse.
As of Monday, he had not come forward to answer the charges.
According to the probable cause statement, Lott "showed no hesitation, second thought or apprehension prior to throwing the puppy out of the hotel window."
Officials at the Humane Society of Missouri in St. Louis want to remind you that if you see anyone intentionally harming an animal don't hesitate to call the police.
"It's just heartbreaking when we hear things like this. It is important for a neighbor, a utility worker, a mail carrier, a friend, a family member, we all must remember we are the voices for animals. We have to take care of them," said Ella Frank the director of the Animal Cruelty Task Force at the Humane Society.
If you see anyone abusing an animal you're urged to call the Animal Cruelty Task For Hotline at (314) 647-4400 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can also report animal abuse online by clicking here.