A 2-year-old husky named Shadow simply followed a man home after becoming separated from his owner near a store in Portage, Indiana.

Instead of helping the friendly dog find his family, authorities say Tony Lee Hughes, 38, tied Shadow to a stairwell outside his mobile home and seriously harmed the helpless animal.

Witnesses reported hearing distressing cries and rushed outside, where they allegedly saw Hughes standing over Shadow, repeatedly injuring him while the dog was unable to escape.

Veterinarians later found 10 serious wounds. The injuries were so severe that Shadow’s owner was forced to make the heartbreaking decision to put him to sleep after he was identified through his microchip.

Hughes allegedly claimed the husky bit him, but officers reported finding no bite marks, no injuries, and no damage to his clothing. Witnesses also stated Shadow showed no aggression and was simply crying in pain.

During the investigation, police reportedly found homemade weapons, marijuana, drug paraphernalia, and a legend drug in Hughes’ possession.