BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — A judge has imposed conditions on a Buffalo man for hitting and throwing his puppy in April 2021.
The Erie County District Attorney's Office announced 23-year-old Navier Rodriguez was sentenced Tuesday in State Supreme Court to a conditional discharge and as part of his sentence the judge imposed an order that prohibits him from having custody or control of any animal for the next five years.
Rodriguez also must abide by the following conditions:
- Perform 150 hours of community service
- Undergo a mental health evaluation
- Complete a SPCA Animal Welfare course
According to the district attorney's office, on April 7, 2021 Rodriguez hit his 8-week-old puppy with a closed fist and threw it to the ground multiple times on Porter Avenue near Front Park in Buffalo.
The puppy suffered extensive injuries to its mouth and was taken to the SPCA Serving Erie County to receive veterinary care. The dog, now known as “Petey,” is being cared for by a foster family.
EDITOR'S NOTE: 7 News has chosen to use Rodriguez's mugshot in accordance with our station mugshot policy, as he has pleaded guilty and has been sentenced. You can read our full mugshot policy here.
Rodriguez pleaded guilty to one count of one count of overdriving, torturing, and injuring animals; failure to provide proper sustenance in October 2021.
My office will continue to hold animal abusers accountable for their actions. I want to thank the SPCA Serving Erie County for their assistance in this criminal investigation and for the many services they provide to animals in our community.
