Erie County District Attorney John J. Flynn announces that 22-year-old Navier Rodriguez of Buffalo was arraigned yesterday morning before Buffalo City Court Judge Andrew C. LoTempio on one count of Aggravated Cruelty to Animals (Class “E” felony) and one count of Overdriving, Torturing and Injuring Animals; Failure to Provide Proper Sustenance (Class “A” misdemeanor).

It is alleged that on Wednesday, April 7, 2021, at approximately 10:47 a.m., the defendant intentionally hit his puppy and threw the dog to the ground multiple times. The puppy suffered extensive injuries to its mouth, including cuts and broken teeth. The incident, that was allegedly seen by multiple witnesses, occurred on Porter Avenue near Front Park in the City of Buffalo.

The puppy is in the custody of the SPCA Serving Erie County where it was treated for its injuries.

Rodriguez is scheduled to return on Monday, June 28, 2021 at 9:30 a.m. He was released on his own recognizance as the charges are non-qualifying for bail. At his arraignment, Judge LoTempio issued a verbal order prohibiting the defendant from owning any pets.

If convicted of all charges, Rodriguez faces a maximum sentence of four years in prison. 

DA Flynn commends the Buffalo Police Department and the SPCA Serving Erie County for their work in the investigation.   

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Megan E. Mahoney of the Animal Cruelty Unit.

As are all persons accused of a crime, the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.