The SPCA of Texas has been granted custody of a dog that was beaten so badly by its owner that the dog lost a tooth. According to a release, in a civil hearing Tuesday, July 29, at the Hunt County courthouse in Greenville, Texas, Judge Sheila D. Linden granted custody of a one-year-old Pit Bull mix dog to the SPCA of Texas.

On Wednesday, July 23, Hunt County resident Eferm Robinson was arrested and charged with Texas Penal Code 42.092, Cruelty to Non-Livestock Animals – Torture (b)(1) after allegedly causing the dog unjustifiable pain and suffering which resulted in bodily injury, a felony of the third degree. Robinson was arrested by the Hunt County Sheriff’s Office and SPCA of Texas investigators and was booked into Hunt County Jail, where he continues to be held on a $100K bond.

On July 18, 2025, the SPCA of Texas’ Animal Cruelty Investigations Unit received a complaint of alleged animal cruelty at a property on Peacock Path in Hunt County. The complaint was accompanied by a video which depicted a violent act of physical abuse toward a dog.

Eferm Robinson, accused of cruelty towards an animal.Courtesy Hunt County Sheriff’s Office

The ACI Unit went to the location and found the dog who had visible injuries and needed immediate medical attention. The dog was transported to the SPCA of Texas’ Russell E. Dealey Animal Rescue Center for evaluation and treatment.

The evaluation revealed that the dog suffered from blunt force trauma to his head with such force that it knocked one of the dog’s teeth out. The dog also had ligature marks around his neck — consistent with being choked or restrained while being beaten. In addition to the evidence of violent physical abuse, the dog was emaciated and showing signs of long-term neglect.

"We’re thankful that Judge Linden recognized the cruelty this dog endured and granted the SPCA of Texas custody,” said Courtney Burns, CAWA, Chief Investigator of the SPCA of Texas’ Animal Cruelty Investigations Unit. “This decision allows our medical team to continue providing the consistent and compassionate care he needs to recover, both physically and emotionally. We will continue to care for him throughout the ten-day appeal period and beyond, ensuring he receives the safety and support he deserves.”