HENRY COUNTY, Va. (rbs news now) — A Bassett man has been arrested in connection with an animal cruelty investigation involving a poodle named Bella, according to a news release issued Friday by the Henry County Sheriff’s Office.

Investigators executed a search warrant Jan. 30 at 46 Holloway Drive, where they recovered a 12-gauge shotgun and three fired shotgun shells believed to be connected to the incident, the sheriff’s office said.

As a result of the investigation, Edwin Green Turner, 52, was interviewed, confessed, and taken into custody.

Turner is charged with cruelty to animals, purchase or possession of a firearm by a person involuntarily admitted or ordered to outpatient treatment, and reckless handling of a firearm.

He is being held at the Henry County Adult Detention Center on a $5,000 secured bond, with bond set by a magistrate.

“Our investigators have worked diligently and methodically to bring this case forward,” Sheriff Wayne Davis said in the release. “Acts of cruelty toward animals are taken seriously in Henry County, and we will continue to hold individuals accountable when evidence supports criminal charges.”

The investigation stems from a December shooting that left Bella blind after being struck by birdshot in the Holloway Drive area of Bassett.

The sheriff’s office said additional charges remain under review in consultation with the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office.

The Henry County Sheriff’s Office thanked residents of the Holloway Drive area and surrounding community for their assistance during the investigation.

Copyright 2026 by Romero Broadcasting System, LLC. All rights reserved. This material may not be reproduced, rewritten, or redistributed.

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ORIGINAL STORY — January 28

HENRY COUNTY, Va. (rbs news now) — The Henry County Sheriff’s Office is investigating what authorities describe as a disturbing act of animal cruelty after a dog was shot and permanently blinded in Bassett.

Investigators said the incident occurred on Dec. 27, 2025, in the Holloway Drive area.

A poodle named Bella was briefly let outside her home when multiple gunshots were heard.

Minutes later, the dog was found suffering from injuries consistent with being shot with birdshot.

Bella was rushed to an emergency veterinary facility and underwent multiple procedures and surgeries.

As a result of the shooting, she has lost her eyesight and is now recovering at home with her family, according to the sheriff’s office.

Authorities said the shooting was intentional and occurred near the dog’s home in the area of 85 Holloway Drive, where multiple residents reported hearing gunshots.

“This was a cruel and deliberate act, and it has deeply affected this family and our community,” Sheriff Wayne Davis said in a Wednesday news release. “Acts of violence against animals will not be tolerated in Henry County.”

Since the incident, investigators with the Criminal Investigations Division have conducted neighborhood canvasses, completed interviews, followed up on leads and reviewed available information.

The investigation remains active.

“Our investigators have been working diligently, and we are committed to seeing this case through,” Sheriff Davis said. “We will continue pursuing every lead until those responsible are identified and held fully accountable under the law.”

The sheriff’s office is asking residents in the Fairmont Drive and Holloway Drive areas to come forward with any information.

“If someone can provide information that leads to an arrest and conviction, I will personally go before the Martinsville-Henry County Crime Stoppers Board and request the full award amount of $2,500,” Davis said.

Tips can be submitted anonymously by calling Crime Stoppers at 276-63-CRIME or contacting the Henry County Sheriff’s Office at 276-656-4200 or 276-638-8751.

Authorities said the investigation will continue until those responsible are identified.

Copyright 2026 by Romero Broadcasting System, LLC. All rights reserved. This material may not be reproduced, rewritten, or redistributed.