Burned Puppy Case Plods Along Slowly

The case is moving forward against a local teen accused of setting a puppy on fire, ultimately killing the dog named Justice.

The defense team met with prosecutors Thursday at the Frank Crowley Courthouse. The state is turning over the evidence it has against Darius Ewing.

The death of the dog and the animal cruelty case, has outraged animal lovers. 

“We wanted to show our support for Justice,” said Ann Mattson, volunteer with DFW Rescue Me.

Mattson said volunteers won’t miss a minute of the case against Ewing. The 18-year-old did not have to show up for court on Thursday, but animal rights supporters did show up with a message for prosecutors:

“We want to see the maximum penalties given to people who are found guilty of abusing animals,” said Mattson.

Attorneys are meeting privately laying out the evidence in the case and talking about a possible plea deal.

Ewing is accused of dousing a 4-month-old puppy, later named Justice, with lighter fluid and setting him on fire with a cigarette.  The dog died 10 days later with burns on 70 percent of his body. 

Controversy has been surrounding the case in and out of the courtroom with allegations of racial bias.

Animal lovers say justice, in the courtroom and for the dog, is the bottom line.

“Please don’t abuse animals.  If you abuse animals, we want justice for them, and we’re going to be here,” said Mattson.

The judge in the case said prosecutors and the defense could meet a half dozen times before deciding if and when the case will go to trial.

Last month, the judge cut Ewing’s bond in half from $100,000 to $50,000. Ewing remains in jail.