The owner of a cherished German shepherd, found deceased in a utility vehicle, is now facing charges after police determined the car was not stolen as initially reported.

Nathan McKeown, 43, had previously made several public pleas for help, claiming that his Toyota Hilux was taken from a location in Queensland. According to him, his beloved dog, Arnie, was asleep in the vehicle’s tray when the alleged theft occurred.

Initially, reports to the police indicated that the Hilux was stolen on the evening of November 7. However, on November 17 at 4 p.m., a member of the public discovered the vehicle with Arnie dead inside.

In a surprising development, authorities now allege that the vehicle was never stolen. Consequently, McKeown has been charged with one count of breaching the duty of care to an animal.

Detectives from the Bayside Criminal Investigation Branch will present evidence in court suggesting that McKeown drove the Hilux to Amelia Street in Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley, leaving the scene on foot around 10:30 p.m. on November 7.

The police claim that Arnie was left inside the vehicle at that time, leading to the charges against McKeown.

The next morning, it is alleged McKeown told his partner that the vehicle had been stolen from a Wynnum address.

She then reported the theft to police.

Police will allege the man’s partner was not aware that the Hilux had not been stolen.

The search for Arnie became a highly publicised case, with police and community groups all joining the search for the suspected stolen car and dog.

Queensland Police say the investigation is ongoing, and thanked the public for their assistance.

”Media and the public are thanked for their extensive assistance throughout the investigation,” a spokesperson said.

“Police are aware this has been a highly publicised case, and offences of this nature may cause distress and upset members of the public.”

The matter is expected to be listed for hearing before a Brisbane Court next month.