Man charged with setting Riona the dog on fire arrested for violating bond, police say

MEMPHIS, Tenn. (WMC) - Memphis police say the man accused of abusing the dog “Riona” was arrested around 3 p.m. Saturday.

Police said they received evidence that Quishon Brown had a puppy when they arrived at Berkshire Avenue.

The animal was not located, but Brown was arrested and charged with violating bond conditions.

Ginger Natoli with Tails of Hope Animal Rescue says the idea of Brown having another animal, after allegations that he intentionally set his own dog Riona on fire the night of June 20, is terrifying.

“Now there’s concern for that puppy,” Natoli said.

Brown’s family members would not talk about these new allegations. Brown’s neighbors, however, were shocked to hear about these latest developments.

“He should never be allowed to have any animal, in my humble opinion,” Barbie Hardison said.

Barbie’s husband, Ken Hardison, likened the alleged crimes against Riona to child abuse, saying, “it’s the same thing.”

In the state of Tennessee, Brown is facing the felony charge of “setting fire to personal property.” The Hardisons said this Tennessee law equates an animal to an armchair, and they want to see change.

“They’re members of your household and you should treat them like members of your household,” Barbie said.

Ken added, “you should be treated the same way, as if it was your son or your daughter you did that to.”

Brown is set to appear before a judge Monday morning at 9 a.m.

The story is still unfolding.

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