A 30-year-old former Baldwin City man arrested for animal cruelty last week was a Wellsville police officer at the time of the alleged crime, according to Wellsville Police Chief S.W. Gillespie.

Jacob D. Stus, who now lives in Alaska, turned himself in to police Dec. 12. A warrant had been issued for his arrest on charges of animal cruelty and interference with law enforcement.

According to Baldwin City Police Chief Greg Neis, Jacob D. Stus is accused of beating and killing an animal that came onto Stus’ property June 19.

Gillespie said that Stus worked for the Wellsville police until August, when Stus resigned. Gillespie declined further comment about the case.

Stus is free on a $2,000 bond, and his next court appearance is Friday.