Orangeburg Man Convicted of Puppy Burning in Norway

Desmond Levon Brown pleaded guilty to violating the federal PACT Act.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 11:47pm

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An extreme close-up of a charred dog collar against a pitch-black background, conceptually illustrating the tragedy of animal cruelty.A harrowing reminder that animal abuse, even committed abroad, will be prosecuted to the fullest extent under U.S. law.Orangeburg Today

A 29-year-old man from Orangeburg, South Carolina has pleaded guilty to burning a puppy alive in Norway, marking the first known conviction under the federal Preventing Animal Cruelty and Torture (PACT) Act in the state.

Why it matters

The PACT Act, passed in 2019, made certain acts of animal cruelty a federal felony. This case highlights the law's reach beyond U.S. borders and South Carolina's efforts to prosecute animal abuse crimes.

The details

Desmond Levon Brown admitted to burning a puppy alive while visiting Norway in 2025. Authorities said Brown's actions were captured on video and led to his arrest and extradition to the United States to face charges under the PACT Act.

  • In 2025, Brown burned a puppy alive while visiting Norway.
  • On April 16, 2026, Brown pleaded guilty to the PACT Act violation.

The players

Desmond Levon Brown

A 29-year-old man from Orangeburg, South Carolina who pleaded guilty to burning a puppy alive in Norway.

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What they’re saying

“Burning a defenseless puppy alive is an act of unimaginable cruelty. We will not tolerate such heinous crimes against animals, even when committed outside our borders.”

— U.S. Attorney Sherri Lydon, District of South Carolina

What’s next

Brown is scheduled to be sentenced in June 2026 and faces up to 7 years in federal prison.

The takeaway

This conviction demonstrates South Carolina's commitment to prosecuting animal abuse cases to the fullest extent of the law, including under the federal PACT Act, in order to protect vulnerable creatures and send a strong message that such cruelty will not be tolerated.