FLAGLER COUNTY, Fla. — A man from Palm Coast is now facing charges of felony animal cruelty. He’s accused of killing his 15-month-old dog by strangulation, as reported by the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office.

Howard Blair, 55, was arrested Thursday in connection with the death of his American Bulldog and Labrador Retriever mix named Nutmeg.

On January 25, deputies were dispatched to a residence in Palm Coast following a report concerning an animal. Upon arrival, they found out that Nutmeg, the dog, had passed away the previous night.

Nutmeg was one of five dogs living inside the residence.

During their investigation into the dog’s death, deputies discovered that Nutmeg had been strangled by Blair after she bit another dog during mealtime.

The sheriff’s office said Blair wrapped Nutmeg in a blanket and placed her in a plastic bin before burying her in the backyard.

On May 17, detectives obtained an arrest warrant for Blair based on evidence obtained during the investigation.

Deputies located Blair on Thursday and arrested him for aggravated animal cruelty.

“I commend our deputies for thoroughly investigating this case,” said Sheriff Rick Staly. “If you hurt or kill an innocent animal, we will find you and put you in the Green Roof Inn where you belong.”

Blair was taken to the Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility, where he was released on a $2,500 bond.