Sterling man severely beats dog with baseball bat, Loudoun County officials say

A Sterling man was arrested after he severely beat a dog with a baseball bat, according to Loudoun County Animal Services.

Officials said they launched an investigation on Aug. 31 after receiving a tip about the alleged animal abuse.

Detectives said their investigation determined 30-year-old Kevin Graves severely beat a dog with a baseball bat in a home in Sterling. The dog, now renamed "Sako," survived the onslaught and was taken into the custody of animal services, which is planning to place him in foster care during his recovery, according to officials.

Graves was charged with animal cruelty, a Class I misdemeanor, and was released on bond. Graves is scheduled to appear in court on Oct. 4. If convicted, officials said he faces up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $1,000.

If you have concerns related to the welfare of an animal, you can call the Loudoun County Department of Animal Services at (703) 777-0406.