Case Postponed for Augusta Man Accused of Kicking Puppy

A judge has postponed the case of an Augusta man accused of kicking a puppy on the Kennebec River Rail Trail last year.

The Kennebec Journal reports that 46-year-old Michael Hein's the case was postponed Tuesday because a deputy district attorney wasn't available for a dispositional conference. A new hearing date hasn't been set.

Hein was charged with misdemeanor animal cruelty after authorities say an investigation determined Hein was jogging on the trail Nov. 23 when he stopped to kick the leashed puppy that moved in his direction.

Police said the kick sent the 4-month-old golden retriever puppy into the air, but it has recovered.

Hein has denied the accusation through his attorney, Scott Hess. Hess said Tuesday his client was disappointed that the case was postponed. (AP)