CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. — A Chattanooga man is facing multiple charges after allegedly using his family’s pit bull as leverage to secure bail following his arrest. Marvin Blayne Royer, 23, was booked into the Hamilton County Jail on Tuesday on charges including theft of property, evading arrest, car theft, extortion, and animal cruelty.
Royer’s legal troubles began earlier that day when he was apprehended by authorities for shoplifting near the Hamilton Place Mall, located approximately 11 miles from where he had reportedly stolen his mother’s car. It wasn’t long before police learned Royer had left a pit bull inside the vehicle when he fled the scene.
After his arrest, Royer allegedly contacted his grandfather, informing him of his situation. When his grandfather inquired about the whereabouts of the stolen car and the dog, Royer reportedly told him he would only disclose the location of the car and animal if the family member agreed to post his bail.
Royer’s attempt at extortion was short-lived, however. Authorities were able to locate the vehicle with the pit bull locked inside, just a short distance from where Royer was initially arrested. Thankfully, the animal was found unharmed.
Royer remains incarcerated at the Hamilton County Jail, where no bond amount has been set at this time. His arrest has drawn attention due to the unusual nature of the crime, with both theft and animal cruelty charges now part of his record.
As the investigation continues, Royer’s actions are expected to result in serious legal consequences.
