Killona dog beater re-arrested on felony charges

Second warrant issued after new information surfaces

A Killona man arrested and released on bail last night for allegedly beating a dog to death was arrested again on a new warrant for felony charges Friday afternoon.

Sheriff Greg Champagne said the new warrant was issued for Rashard C. Poche after consultation with the District Attorney. The second arrest warrant, signed by Judge Emile St. Pierre, was for aggravated cruelty to animals, a felony charge.

The new warrant was issued after the Sheriff’s Office received additional information from veterinarian that treated the Chihuahua, named “JoJo.”

The Sheriff’s Office’s original reports allege Poche, 37, threw the six-pound male Chihuahua against a wall and then stomped on it after becoming frustrated with the dog’s barking.

Poche’s girlfriend was temporarily taking care of the animal for another family member, Sheriff’s Office spokesman Sgt. Dwayne LaGrange said.

After the attack, the dog was taken to Riverlands Animal Hospital in Laplace for treatment. The dog was euthanized after attempts were made to treat it for head trauma, neck injuries and a state of shock.

Riverlands Animal Hospital said that approximately $1500 in charges incurred after attempts to save Jojo’s life was paid by donations collected through a GoFundMe.com account set up by an employee at the St. John Animal Shelter.

 

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