A Springdale man is facing multiple serious charges after police discovered evidence of both large-scale drug activity and severe animal abuse in his home.
According to police reports, officers were called to a Rosslyn Street residence after receiving a tip about two dogs that were allegedly never let outside and one that had been “howling as if something was wrong.” Upon arrival, authorities found the house in what they described as “deplorable” condition. The animals were locked in cages without food or water, covered in urine, feces, and fleas. One dog’s collar had even caused a 1½-inch open wound on its neck—a clear sign of neglect and animal abuse.
While executing a search warrant, officers also uncovered a massive marijuana stash. Inside a safe, police said they found 33 pounds of marijuana in vacuum-sealed bags, hundreds of rolled joints, over 130 THC vape pens, and two pounds of THC wax. The estimated street value of the drugs was $58,000. This discovery resulted in numerous felony drug charges, in addition to the aggravated cruelty to animals charges tied to the animal abuse investigation.
The suspect, identified as 35-year-old Joshua Pawlak, had already posted $20,000 bail on the earlier drug charges. When Pawlak came to the police station on Friday to sign over control of his dogs, officers informed him he was being arrested for animal abuse.
Police say the July 29 call that sparked the investigation highlights how community tips can play a critical role in uncovering both animal abuse and other criminal activity. The discovery of the wounded dogs alongside the large drug operation demonstrates how abuse and criminal enterprise can intersect, often with animals suffering in silence.
Following the search, a Springdale code enforcement officer condemned Pawlak’s home due to its unsafe and unsanitary conditions. The bail for the animal abuse and evading arrest charges was set as nonmonetary, while separate court dates have been scheduled for both the abuse case and the drug-related charges.
Animal advocates stress that cases like this show why reporting suspected neglect or animal abuse immediately can save lives. In this instance, the dogs were removed from dangerous conditions, and authorities were able to bring multiple charges against the individual responsible.
Pawlak’s preliminary hearing for the animal abuse case is set for Aug. 25, while the hearing for the drug-related charges will follow on Sept. 22. His attorney has declined to comment on the matter.
