Vian Man Pleads Not Guilty To Animal Cruelty

A 26-year-old Vian man accused of dragging a horse down a paved country road with his ATV has pleaded not guilty to a charge of animal cruelty.

The plea was entered by Rueben Houston during a hearing Monday, March 12, 2012 in Sequoyah County District Court.

Sequoyah County Sheriff's deputies say the injuries to the horse were so severe that a veterinarian had to euthanize it.

Houston is also charged with trespassing and malicious injury to property.

His next court hearing is March 19,2012.

2/10/2012 Related Story: Vian Man Charged With Cruelty To Animals Waives Preliminary Hearing