Elderly Couple Arrested for Dragging German Shepherd Behind Truck in West Texas

On August 26, 2024, at approximately 10:50 AM, officers from the Big Spring Police Department and Big Spring Animal Control were dispatched to the Crossroads Housing Development in the 200 block of NE 7th Street following reports of animal cruelty involving an adult German Shepherd. Two witnesses had reported the incident.

Upon arrival, officers were informed by the witnesses that a black male was driving a Ford F-150 pickup truck while a black female passenger held a leash, dragging the German Shepherd behind the vehicle. Witnesses stated they honked their horns to get the driver’s attention, prompting the vehicle to stop. The witnesses then attempted to provide care for the dog. According to the witnesses, the female passenger informed them they were merely taking the dog “around the corner.” The witnesses stayed with the dog as the occupants of the Ford F-150 left the area.

Big Spring Police officers searched the surrounding area and spotted a vehicle matching the description given by the witnesses in the 100 block of NE 6th Street. Officers conducted a traffic stop and identified the occupants as Marilyn Williams, a 67-year-old black female, and Alvin Williams, a 64-year-old black male. After conducting an investigation, officers concluded that Marilyn and Alvin Williams were the individuals involved in the incident of animal cruelty.

Big Spring Animal Control officers transported the injured dog to a veterinarian to receive the necessary medical care.

Both Alvin and Marilyn Williams were arrested and charged with Cruelty to an Animal/Torture, classified as a third-degree felony offense.