Prince Shembo released by Atlanta Falcons following animal cruelty charge

The Atlanta Falcons have confirmed that they have released linebacker Prince Shembo following news of an aggravated animal cruelty charge.

The charges came following an incident in which Shembo's former girlfriend Denicia Williams claimed that he had killed her Yorkshire terrier.

Williams suggested that Shembo had kicked her dog and the police discovered that the dog had died of multiple injuries caused by blunt force trauma.

A warrant was issued for the arrest of the 23-year-old on May 28, and as a result the Falcons have cut ties with the linebacker.

"We are aware of the charges that have been filed against Prince Shembo," the Falcons said in a statement.

"We are extremely disappointed that one of our players is involved in something like this. Accordingly, we have decided to waive Prince Shembo."

Shembo made 59 tackles in his rookie season with the Falcons.