Gibsonton Man Arrested After Deputies Say He Stabbed Family Dog

GIBSONTON, FL -- A 34-year-old Gibsonton man is facing animal cruelty charges after Hillsborough County Sheriff's deputies said he stabbed the family dog.

Deputies arrested Robert Abbott Jr. of California Street, Gibsonton, around 4 p.m. Saturday, March 30, after Abbott Jr. got into an argument with his father. According to deputies, while they were arguing, Abbott got a knife and stabbed the family's pit bull mix several times.

When deputies entered the home, they discovered Abbott Jr. had barricaded himself inside a bathroom with the knife, and refused orders from deputies to come out and surrender himself.

After several minutes of negotiations, Abbott Jr. allowed deputies to enter the bathroom and he was taken into custody without further incident.

Hillsborough County Animal Services responded to the scene and arranged emergency veterinary services for the injured dog.

Abbott Jr. is facing charges of aggravated animal cruelty and resisting arrest without violence.