An Escatawpa man is behind bars today on felony aggravated animal cruelty charges.
Jackson County Sheriff John Ledbetter says a Crime Stoppers tip came in that led investigators to the home of Gage Skinner, 26, who is accused of abusing a young puppy.
Judge Mark Watts denied bond for Skinner, pending a mental evaluation.
The puppy was taken to the county animal shelter and is safe.