A Houston solicitor has been charged with alleged animal abuse following claims that his wife discovered footage involving the family’s pet dog. Steven Swain, 56, is facing a serious bestiality charge linked to an incident that occurred in November 2025.
Investigation launched after wife's complaint
Mr Swain, who is the head of The Swain Law Firm, has been practising as a lawyer in Houston, USA, since 1997. The investigation started in May when his wife filed a complaint against him with the Houston Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. The woman reportedly installed cameras in her home while renovation work was being carried out.
After reviewing the footage, she alleged that it showed her husband mistreating the family’s pet dog, Shipley, a small black dog, according to a probable cause affidavit.
Detective examines video evidence
Following the complaint, the Houston Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals contacted Detective Natalie Spellman, an animal cruelty investigator and peace officer with Harris County Constable Precinct One, on May 11 2026, according to reports. Detective Spellman examined the video submitted by Swain's wife and detailed in the affidavit that it depicted Swain "lying on his back in a bed in a room that appeared to be a bedroom."
Swain could be heard saying, "Come here, Shipley," as the family's dog entered the frame, Spellman elaborated.
Wife's account of the incident
Detective Natalie Spellman interviewed Swain’s wife on May 13, when she explained that security cameras had been installed throughout the home to monitor ongoing renovation work that was expected to last around 18 months. According to the affidavit, she later added more cameras after becoming concerned about her husband’s behaviour and what she described as unusual incidents occurring at the property.
She said she placed a nanny-style camera in the bedroom while contractors were working in an adjoining bathroom. The woman told investigators that the alleged incident took place on November 21, 2025, and that she became aware of it after reviewing footage captured by the cameras later that evening.
Charges and release
Swain’s wife told Detective Spellman that she was uncertain how to respond after reviewing the footage and said she was convinced it showed both her husband and the family dog, Shipley. Following an investigation into the allegations, authorities charged Swain with an offence related to animal abuse. He was later released from custody after posting a $75,000 bond.
