Homeless Man Arrested for Abusing Husky in Gresham

Gresham, OR – A 30-year-old homeless man is behind bars after allegedly assaulting his dog in a disturbing incident witnessed by several bystanders.

At approximately 8:17 a.m. on Wednesday, July 23, Gresham Police responded to multiple 911 calls reporting animal abuse near Southeast Stark Street and Southeast Kane Drive. Witnesses described a man violently slamming a husky to the ground and forcefully striking the dog’s head against the pavement.

Dog Found Injured but Alive

When officers arrived on the scene, they located the dog—identified as a black and white husky with striking blue eyes—limping but alert. While the dog appeared to be in pain, there were no immediately visible wounds aside from the limp.

In a compassionate moment, Gresham Police comfort dog Tagg offered his own water bowl to the injured husky as officers assessed the situation and began their investigation.

Suspect Taken Into Custody

The suspect, identified as Marquel Phillips, was arrested at the scene. He now faces multiple charges, including:

Second-degree animal abuse
Carrying a concealed weapon (a knife)
Several outstanding warrants from Colorado

Following his arrest, Phillips was lodged in the Multnomah County Detention Center.

Dog Now in Safe Hands

Multnomah County Animal Control has taken custody of the husky for further medical evaluation and care. Authorities have not yet released information about the dog’s long-term condition or where it will be housed going forward.

Police have not disclosed a motive for the attack but praised the quick action of concerned witnesses who called in the abuse.

The incident has sparked renewed calls from local animal advocates to strengthen enforcement and support systems to protect pets, especially in vulnerable situations involving unhoused individuals.