DES MOINES, Iowa — A Des Moines man accused of dragging his dog on a leash out of a car window has pleaded guilty to lesser charges.
In June, 60-year-old Patrick Cornick was arrested and charged with animal torture-first offense, possession of a controlled substance – marijuana – second offense, and operating while under the influence – first offense.
On the night of June 11, witnesses reported to the Des Moines Police Department seeing a dog hanging out of a car window by her leash and being dragged for several blocks until the leash broke in the area of 3500 Grand Avenue. According to a criminal complaint, the driver of the car, identified as Cornick, kept driving for several blocks before turning around and returning to the dog.
The DMPD said the dog was taken to an emergency vet hospital to be treated for injuries before being placed in the care of the Animal Rescue League of Iowa. Roughly a week after the incident, the ARL shared that the dog, named Lola, had been humanely euthanized due to the extent of her injuries. According to the ARL, Lola suffered severe injuries across her body and had begun experiencing organ dysfunction.
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A criminal complaint states that Cornick had bloodshot, watery eyes and slurred, confused speech. The complaint also claims that Cornick admitted to using multiple medications that cause drowsiness and that officers found glass pipes with narcotic residue inside, as well as a vape with liquid THC in his car…