Sale Creek, Tennessee, September 3, 2025
News Summary
Matthew Barlow from Sale Creek, Tennessee, is facing legal charges for shooting his dog and threatening a minor with a firearm. After being found at a local store, Barlow confessed to shooting his dog for attacking his pigs. Law enforcement found the injured Rottweiler and are investigating further allegations of threats made towards a child, leading to charges including aggravated cruelty to animals and aggravated assault. The case highlights the severity of animal cruelty and threats towards minors under Tennessee law.
Sale Creek, Tennessee
A Hamilton County man, Matthew Barlow, is facing serious legal charges after an incident involving the shooting of his dog and making threats towards a minor. The events began when Hamilton County deputies responded to a 911 call detailing a disorder involving a weapon on Lloyd Trail.
The dispatcher informed deputies that Barlow had reportedly shot his dog and aimed a firearm at a young boy, leading to immediate inquiries into the situation. While en route, deputies learned that Barlow had left the scene in a white Cadillac, prompting them to intensify their search.
Deputies soon located the vehicle driven by Barlow’s wife, Sarah Davis, who was found at a local Dollar General Store with Barlow as a passenger. During questioning, Barlow confessed to shooting his dog, claiming the animal had attacked one of his pigs and asserting that the dog was still alive at his home. He indicated that he was on his way to a cookout and had no plans to seek veterinary care for the wounded animal.
As deputies proceeded to Barlow’s residence, his wife disclosed that a gun was located in the glove compartment of their vehicle. Upon arrival, officers discovered the injured Rottweiler chained near the driveway, exhibiting a bullet wound to its side. The Hamilton County Humane Society was subsequently called to provide necessary medical assistance for the animal.
Further investigation revealed additional concerning behavior from Barlow. Deputies interviewed the minor victim, a child living on the property in a camper, who corroborated the accounts of Barlow’s aggressive actions. The boy detailed how Barlow had aimed the cocked gun at him, prompting serious concerns when considering the minor’s safety. Additionally, the boy’s mother submitted a written statement outlining Barlow’s behavior, which included aggressive threats and attempts to entice her son into a physical confrontation.
As a result of this incident, Matthew Barlow has been charged with aggravated cruelty to animals and aggravated assault. The local authorities are continuing their investigation to determine if any further charges may be applicable as new information becomes available.
Background Information
Animal cruelty laws vary by state, and acts of violence towards animals or minors can lead to heavy penalties. In Tennessee, aggravated cruelty to animals is a felony offense, reflecting the state’s commitment to protecting both human and animal welfare. Encounters involving firearms and threats of violence against children also carry severe legal repercussions, emphasizing the need for law enforcement intervention in such situations.
This incident raises awareness about the importance of responsible pet ownership and the consequences of violent actions towards animals, as well as the safety of minors in potentially threatening situations.
FAQ
What charges is Matthew Barlow facing?
Matthew Barlow has been charged with aggravated cruelty to animals and aggravated assault.
What happened to the dog?
The dog, a Rottweiler, was found with a bullet wound to its side and was taken to the Hamilton County Humane Society for medical care.
Was anyone else involved in the incident?
Yes, a minor who lived on the property was involved; he reported that Barlow aimed a gun at him.
Where did the incident take place?
The incident occurred in Sale Creek, Tennessee.
What actions are taken in animal cruelty cases in Tennessee?
Animal cruelty is treated seriously under Tennessee law, with severe penalties for offenders, including the potential for felony charges.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Recent Arrests in Hamilton County Outline Criminal Activity
Chattanooga Man Faces Extortion Charges Over Pet and Car
Manhunt Ends Dramatically in Chattanooga
Additional Resources
- News Channel 9
- Wikipedia: Animal Cruelty
- The Dispatch
- Google Search: Animal Cruelty Law Tennessee
- WLWT
- Google Scholar: Animal Cruelty Legislation
- Fox19
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Animal Cruelty
- 10TV
- Google News: Animal Rights News
Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
The CHATTANOOGA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREChattanooga.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chattanooga, Hamilton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Riverbend Festival, Chattanooga Oktoberfest, and Moon River Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Chattanooga, plus leading businesses in manufacturing, insurance, and utilities that power the local economy such as Volkswagen Chattanooga, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, and EPB. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
