A Girardville man is facing charges after Pennsylvania State Police say his dog attacked his juvenile son last month, leading to an investigation that uncovered alleged animal neglect and licensing violations.
Allen J. Ringgold, 46, of Girardville, has been charged with Cruelty to Animals (M2) and Failure to License a Dog (Summary) stemming from an incident on February 9, 2026.
According to an Affidavit of Probable Cause filed by State Police from the Frackville barracks, troopers responded around 12:45 p.m. to the 300 block West Ogden Street in Girardville Borough for a report of a juvenile male who had been attacked by a dog.
Upon arrival, police learned that Ringgold's juvenile son had been bitten by his pit bull. The dog allegedly latched onto the juvenile’s arm, causing what appeared to be a severe fracture. A neighbor reportedly struck the dog multiple times in an attempt to stop the attack and ultimately discharged a firearm, striking the dog in the back of the head to end the incident. The neighbor was able to take the juvenile to his home for safety until EMS arrived.
The injured juvenile was transported to Geisinger Medical Center in Danville for treatment of suspected serious injuries to his arm and neck area.
Police said Schuylkill County Dog Warden Rich Hine responded to the scene and instructed Ringgold to transport the dog to a veterinary facility for care or humane euthanasia. Authorities also determined the dog was not licensed.
Two days later, on February 11, 2026, Schuylkill County Children & Youth Services followed up at the residence and observed the dog still alive, suffering from a gunshot wound to the head and reportedly in poor overall health.
According to court documents, Ringgold allegedly told investigators he attempted to euthanize the dog by feeding it chocolate. The dog was later signed over to another individual and transported to Mountain Shadow Veterinary Hospital in Schuylkill Haven, where it was euthanized by staff.
Veterinary staff reported the animal had been suffering from multiple ailments consistent with severe malnourishment and severe lesions.
On February 19, 2026, police made contact with Ringgold, who allegedly admitted to giving the dog chocolate but stated he did not immediately seek veterinary care because he was at the hospital with his son.
Ringgold has been charged and is expected to answer to the charges in court.