Gresham Man Accused of Making Up Violent Robbery After Video Reveals He Was Abusing His Dog

The return of a Shepherd/Rottweiler mix, Shayla, to the Gresham Police by a caring and concerned citizen has resulted in a charge of first-degree aggravated animal abuse after he fabricated a story about being attacked by four unknown robbers.

However, Shayla’s owner, Christian Myles, has disappeared and is being sought by the police. Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Justin Pick at [email protected].

In mid-November, Myles told the police that he was attacked by four unknown assailants, who snatched Shayla and fled in a white SUV, while he was walking in downtown Gresham.

According to a police report, Myles was highly intoxicated and unable to pinpoint an exact location where the alleged kidnapping and assault occurred.

A few days after the report, and following extensive media coverage, a community member arrived at the Police Department and handed over Shayla.

While investigating Myles’ claims, police reviewed surveillance videos from several shops near a bar in downtown Gresham, which Myles had visited with Shayla. Footage showed him repeatedly hitting the animal.

He then became involved in a physical altercation with another patron of the bar, during which another community member, concerned for Shayla’s safety, took the dog away.

Myles faces charges of first-degree aggravated animal abuse, initiating a false report, and other crimes.

Shayla is in the care of Multnomah County Animal Services.