ICE Detains Suspect in Working Dogs of Nevada Abuse Case as Rescued Dog Begins Recovery
One of the two employees charged in the Working Dogs of Nevada animal abuse case has been detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and one of the rescued dogs is now receiving the behavioral training his owner originally sought.
The developments follow the April 29 status check hearing in Las Vegas Justice Court, which we covered ahead of Wednesday’s proceedings.
One Suspect Is in ICE Custody
Tabitha Berube appeared virtually at the April 29 hearing and disclosed that her co-defendant, John Johnstone, had been detained by ICE. The Department of Homeland Security’s online detainee database confirmed the claim, and an arrest report notes that Johnstone is a Scottish citizen.
Both Berube and Johnstone had been free since posting bond after their April 1 arrests. Both still face multiple felony animal cruelty charges connected to the abuse that took place at the facility near Lake Mead and Tenaya.
The case continues to move through the courts. The 31 dogs remaining at The Animal Foundation are still under a legal hold.
Sarge Is Learning the World Isn’t So Scary
A dog now called Sarge, who was known as “Marmaduke” during his time at Working Dogs of Nevada, has been placed with Norton Dog Training in south Las Vegas. Trainer Brad Norton describes him as very clingy and unsure of himself.
Over the coming weeks, Sarge will work on basic commands, socialisation with people, and socialisation with other dogs. Norton’s goal is straightforward: teaching Sarge that humans aren’t out to hurt him.
His owner had originally brought him to Working Dogs of Nevada for behavioural training. He is now getting that training somewhere safer.
What to Watch Next
The case remains at an early procedural stage, and Johnstone’s ICE detention adds uncertainty to how it will proceed. We will continue to follow developments as they happen.
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