Washington Co. sheriff's employee accused of abusing police dog

POTOSI — A Washington County Sheriff’s Department worker faces two misdemeanor counts of animal abuse after the department’s police dog was found to be sick and malnourished.

Charges were filed Tuesday against 41-year-old Lance Mason of Potosi. Mason has been on administrative leave since an investigation began in February.

The department adopted the dog, Mosley, in January 2007 for use in search and rescues. The animal was turned over to Mason for care and training in November.

Authorities say the dog was found in February in a tiny pen with no food, water or bedding. A veterinarian diagnosed frostbite, malnutrition, dehydration, ear and eye infections and other ailments.

Midwest Bloodhound Rescue says Mosley is recovering and a foster family is adopting him.