SMITH TOWNSHIP, Mahoning Co., Ohio - A trial date has been set for the Smith Township man accused of shooting two dogs.

Gary Smith, Jr. appeared in court Wednesday for his arraignment, where his trial was set for April 27th.

Smith is accused of shooting two dogs and strangling one of them.

The incident happened in early February after Animal Charity found two dogs buried in a freshly dug grave in the backyard of a Smith Township home.

Investigators say that four other dogs were found alive at the home and were taken into Animal Charity custody.

Humane agents told 21 News they believed the dogs were hurt as part of a domestic situation.

Smith faces multiple felony animal cruelty charges.

His bond was set at $20,000.