Luckily, some witnesses saw the cruel act and called the police.
People could see how James got out of the home with the dog and lift “the small dog over his head and heave the dog into the dumpster.”
The troubling incident occurred at the Lakeside Trailer Park at 3030 Cranberry Highway, according to a department statement.
When the cops arrived on scene, the dog’s owner was visibly upset, according to reports.
By that point, officials said, the owner had retrieved his small black and white dog from the trash, and another witness corroborated his shocking account.
The Wareham Department of Natural Resources charged James Balboni with animal cruelty which carries a maximum sentence of seven years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000 for the first offense.
Thankfully, the dog didn’t suffer any injuries and is now back with his owner following the incident.
If anyone ever witnesses any act of cruelty to an animal, it’s important to call police immediately to prevent further harm to the animal!