Nathan McKeown, 43, made multiple public appeals searching for his missing dog, Arnie, after reports surfaced that both his Toyota Hilux and the German shepherd were stolen in Queensland. Arnie had been sleeping in the vehicle’s tray on November 7 when the incident allegedly occurred.

Ten days later, on November 17, a member of the public discovered the Hilux, only to find Arnie tragically deceased inside.

In an unexpected turn of events, authorities claimed the vehicle was never stolen. Consequently, McKeown faced charges for failing to uphold a duty of care for an animal.

This week, the charge was escalated to injuring animals, specifically causing injury or death during the night.

McKeown also faces additional charges, including three counts of driving without a valid license due to demerit points, one count of driving under the influence, and serious obstruction of police.

He is expected to appear before a Brisbane Court this month.

Detectives from the Bayside Criminal Investigation branch will allege in court that McKeown drove his Hilux into Amelia Street in Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley and left on foot around 10.30pm on November 7.

Police will allege Arnie was left inside the vehicle at that time.

The next morning, it is alleged McKeown told his partner that the vehicle had been stolen from a Wynnum address.

She then reported the theft to police.

Police will allege the man’s partner was not aware that the Hilux had not been stolen.

The search for Arnie became a highly publicised case, with police and community groups all joining the search for the suspected stolen car and dog.

Queensland Police say the investigation is ongoing, and thanked the public for their assistance.

“Media and the public are thanked for their extensive assistance throughout the investigation,” a spokesperson said.

“Police are aware this has been a highly publicised case, and offences of this nature may cause distress and upset members of the public.”