Charges Filed After Shocking Video Allegedly Shows Dog Unsecured in Crate on Highway As Temperatures Plummet

A troubling incident has emerged from Lake County, Indiana, where a man has been charged with animal cruelty after a video reportedly surfaced showing a dog positioned on an unrestrained trailer on the expressway. Erik McClinton, 37, is facing legal action following public outcry over the alleged incident, which is said to have taken place on Tuesday morning near the intersection of Calumet Avenue and I-80/94.

Witness Ryan Jackson reportedly filmed the scene as he entered the highway at approximately 11:45 a.m. He described a distressing sight: a shivering dog confined in a crate on a trailer being towed by a black SUV. “Are they getting on the highway for real?” Jackson was heard saying in the video, expressing disbelief over what he observed. With the wind chill reportedly at 17 degrees, Jackson took it upon himself to document the event in hopes of alerting authorities.

After Jackson’s footage went viral, the Indiana State Police launched an investigation and traced McClinton to his registered address in Gary. Upon arrival, officers reportedly found the dog, later identified as Midnight, roaming the neighborhood. A neighbor provided information suggesting that Midnight may have wandered into his yard due to the presence of a female dog in heat. Reports also indicate that McClinton had moved away from the area last summer.

A K9 handler who was off duty reportedly observed concerning physical signs on Midnight, including dried blood on its head, a missing portion of its ear, and apparent malnourishment, with visible ribs. Midnight was then transported to the Hobart Humane Society for care. Following this, McClinton allegedly contacted authorities, expressing concern about his dog’s welfare.

During a police interview, McClinton purportedly stated that he had relocated recently and, due to the presence of puppies in his SUV, had placed Midnight on the trailer. He allegedly claimed that a blanket covering the crate had blown away and insisted that the crate was securely fastened to the trailer—a claim that law enforcement has reportedly disputed. Additionally, McClinton asserted that he had permission from an acquaintance named “Joe” to transport the dog in this manner, though officers were reportedly unable to verify the identity of this individual.

Jackson later informed police that after he stopped filming, a stray tow strap allegedly fell and dragged along the ground, creating a potential hazard. This detail, among others, reportedly contributed to law enforcement’s decision to issue a warrant for McClinton’s arrest on animal cruelty charges, which are classified as a misdemeanor.

Currently, Midnight is receiving care in a foster home, while the Indiana State Police have been inundated with calls from concerned citizens expressing interest in adopting the dog. However, authorities have indicated that any adoption proceedings will not occur until legal matters are resolved.

As the investigation into this case continues, law enforcement officials are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspected cases of animal distress. This incident underscores the critical responsibilities of pet ownership and the legal and ethical implications of neglectful treatment of animals.