BROCKTON, Mass.—An Abington man accused of throwing a punch that led to the death of a former Marine who complained about his barking dog has been acquitted of an involuntary manslaughter charge, but convicted of a lesser offense.

Michael McGunigle was found guilty Thursday of assault and battery in connection with the July 2009 death of 48-year-old Brian Cherry.

Prosecutors say the 50-year-old McGunigle punched Cherry in the head outside an Abington coffee shop after Cherry asked McGunigle to control his dog. The animal, restrained in McGunigle's SUV, was menacing passers-by.

Cherry struck his head on the ground and later died.

McGunigle's lawyer argued that Cherry was the aggressor and McGunigle acted in self defense.

District Attorney Timothy Cruz says he's glad McGunigle was found responsible. Sentencing is scheduled for Nov. 12.

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