Samuel Stanford, a 25-year-old man from Monticello in Sullivan County, serving probation for a previous incident involving an attack on his dog resulting in serious injuries, has been arrested again. Authorities report that Stanford was apprehended on Tuesday following the execution of a search warrant, during which he was found in possession of 30 grams of MDMA, believed to be intended for sale.

Monticello Police reported that Samuel Stanford was heard by neighbors violently assaulting his 2-year-old female Pit Bull named Zola, prompting a call for help. Upon arrival, officers witnessed Stanford stomping on the dog’s head and body. In November, Stanford pleaded guilty to aggravated animal abuse and received a sentence of one year probation, mental health counseling, anger management, 100 hours of community service, restitution for medical treatment and training, and registration under Dean’s Law.

Zola sustained severe injuries, including two deep lacerations to her head, a broken cheekbone, multiple wounds to her body, abrasions to her legs, and two broken ribs. She has been under the care of Real World K9, LLC since June, where she is undergoing training to become a police K-9 and will be donated back to the Monticello Police Department.

The Sullivan County District Attorney’s Office stated that Stanford’s new charges constitute a violation of his probation. He was taken to Sullivan County Jail without bail. District Attorney Brian Conaty emphasized that the DA’s office will hold individuals accountable for dangerous and illegal acts, and Stanford’s actions warrant serious consideration of punishment under the law. Stanford now faces new charges of criminal sale and possession of a controlled substance.

In a video posted on the Sullivan County Sheriff’s Facebook page, Stanford, handcuffed and escorted into the Sullivan County Courthouse, expressed his wishes for Zola’s well-being.