SCOTT DEPOT, WV (LOOTPRESS) — A disturbing scene unfolded Friday in Putnam County when deputies responded to a 911 call reporting a man yelling for help — a call that led to the rescue of a beaten and bloody man allegedly held captive inside a doghouse.
The incident happened near 219 Circle Way in Scott Depot, where a concerned neighbor told dispatchers she heard a male screaming for help and others shouting that “he got out.” Shortly afterward, the victim appeared on her property, bloodied and pleading for help. Deputies arrived and the man was rushed to the hospital.
The victim told investigators he had been held against his will and physically assaulted at the Circle Way residence, owned by Larry Newberry.
According to the victim, he was struck in the head with a firearm, shoved into a large doghouse, and the entrance was blocked with a heavy chest strapped shut with a ratchet strap. He claimed he was accused of stealing drugs by his captors.
The victim identified several of the alleged attackers by first name: Craig, Brandon (who he said is Newberry’s nephew), and Mike or Mark. He also claimed Newberry was present during the attack and did nothing to help — instead allegedly telling him to “shut up” when he cried out from confinement.
Deputies have since charged Larry Newberry with conspiracy to commit a felony — kidnapping. The investigation into the identities and involvement of the other suspects is ongoing.
The Putnam County Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone with information related to this incident to contact them immediately.
