SAMSON, Ala. — Two people have been arrested following an investigation by the Samson Police Department into injuries suffered by a small white dog in May known as Toby.
According to the Samson Police Department, officers received a call on May 19, 2026, at approximately 5:30 p.m. requesting assistance for an injured small white dog.
Police said the investigation revealed the injuries had occurred hours before the request for assistance was made. Investigators also determined that numerous false statements were provided during the investigation, including statements regarding ownership and responsibility for the dog.
The findings were presented to the Geneva County District Attorney’s Office. According to police, prosecutors determined the investigative facts did not meet the elements required for felony charges.
The Samson Police Department then presented the case to a Samson Municipal Court magistrate, who issued warrants charging Terrance B. Martin, 45, and Tiffany L. Meredith, 39, with misdemeanor Cruelty to Animals and Filing False Report.
Both were arrested and booked into the Geneva County Jail.
The injured dog, identified by animal rescue advocates as Toby, previously gained widespread attention on social media after reports surfaced that he had suffered severe injuries requiring emergency veterinary treatment. Animal rescue advocates reported that Toby underwent surgery after both eyes were injured and later learned he would be permanently blind.
Those details were shared publicly by rescue organizations and advocates following the incident.
The Samson Police Department is asking anyone with information regarding the dog’s injuries on May 19 to contact investigators.
