Taunton Dog Stabbing Suspect Caught

TAUNTON, MA – Thomas Vargus probably regrets his last trip to the barber. The 45-year-old heavily tattooed man, accused of attacking a woman and her dog in Taunton last month, was arrested in Pennsylvania over the weekend. Police said Vargus was growing hair on his head and face in an apparent attempt to cover his extensive facial ink.

He was taken into custody without incident.

Vargus had been living with 70-year-old Glen Turner, a convicted felon and member of the Pagan Outlaws motorcycle gang who previously served federal prison time with Vargus, according to police. He was taken into custody as the two left a diner Sunday night in Marcus Hook, PA.

On Sept. 18, Vargus allegedly approached a woman while she walked her dog on Church Street, pulled out a machete and stabbed the animal. He is also accused of hitting the woman with the machete, injuring her. Bystanders intervened and were able to lock the dog in a car to prevent further injury, police said. The dog and woman both survived their injuries.

Vargus was added to the Massachusetts State Police "Most Wanted" list Sept. 27. His face and body are heavily tattooed. He has a violent criminal history that includes convictions for assault with a beer bottle, beer can and mace. He has ties to Taunton, Cambridge and Somerville.

Vargus will return to Massachusetts to face charges of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon and animal cruelty.

Image via MSP