HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The 59-year-old man accused of fatally stabbing his wife’s pit bull made a first appearance in court Friday.

John Oathout has been charged with a felony count of cruelty to animals and disorderly conduct. The first court is a felony with a sentencing range of 30 days up to one year in prison. A guilty verdict could also mean a fine from $500 to $5,000.

According to police, back on April 9, Oathout got upset when his wife’s pit bull wouldn’t stop barking and allegedly stabbed the animal. His wife took the dog to a veterinarian, but it died from its injuries.

With the charges filed, the case moves to a waiver-status docket on May 4 in front of Judge Joe McCarville.