Former Georgia State football player charged in Atlanta dog beheading

Jalen Wade faces felony animal cruelty and obstruction charges after standoff with police

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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A former Georgia State football player, Jalen Wade, has been charged with felony aggravated cruelty to animals and misdemeanor willful obstruction of law enforcement officers after a grisly incident involving a beheaded dog in Atlanta. Police were called after a woman reported seeing the decapitated dog on Wade's Instagram account, leading to a standoff that ended with Wade's arrest and the discovery of the dog's severed head on his front porch.

Why it matters

This disturbing case has raised concerns about Wade's mental state and the broader issue of animal cruelty, which can be an indicator of deeper psychological issues. As a former college athlete, Wade's alleged actions have also drawn scrutiny to the challenges some players face transitioning out of sports.

The details

According to reports, police and animal services responded to Wade's residence after a woman saw the decapitated dog on his social media. Wade allegedly refused to come out and barricaded himself inside, prompting a SWAT team response. Authorities say they found the dog's severed head in a bowl next to a machete on Wade's front porch, but have not identified a clear motive for the gruesome act.

  • On February 15, 2026, police were called to Wade's residence in Atlanta.
  • After a standoff, Wade was taken into custody on February 15, 2026.

The players

Jalen Wade

A former football player at Georgia State University who has been charged with felony animal cruelty and obstruction of law enforcement in the beheading of a dog.

Precious Cody

The owner of the dog that was found decapitated, who lost the dog in September and was later contacted by authorities after they found a microchip.

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What they’re saying

“An animal services investigator relayed authorities are looking into Jalen Wade's mental state as part of the investigation.”

— Precious Cody, Dog owner (11Alive)

What’s next

The judge will decide on Tuesday whether to allow Jalen Wade to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This disturbing case highlights the need for greater mental health support and resources for former athletes as they transition out of sports, as well as the importance of addressing animal cruelty, which can be an indicator of deeper psychological issues.