A Buffalo man could face a prison term of up to two years after being charged with a felony count of animal abuse.
Deandre Rogers, 30, of Buffalo, was arraigned Thursday before Buffalo City Court Judge Erin E. Hart on one count of aggravated cruelty to animals (Class “E” felony under New York State Agriculture and Markets Law) and one count of overdriving, torturing and injuring animals; failure to provide proper sustenance (Class “A” misdemeanor under New York State Agriculture and Markets Law).
Rogers is charged with hitting a 9-year-old female Chihuahua named “Bella” at a residence on the 200 block of Geary Street in Buffalo. Bella was taken to BluePearl Pet Hospital, where she was hospitalized for skull fractures and other serious physical injuries. The dog was later transferred to the custody of the SPCA Serving Erie County for rehabilitation and adoption.
Rogers is scheduled to return for a felony hearing on Aug. 21. He was released on his own recognizance as the charges are non-qualifying offenses for bail. As a condition of his release, the DA’s office requested that the court impose a securing order that prohibits the defendant from owning, harboring, or having custody or control of any animals while the case is pending prosecution.
If convicted of the highest charge, Rogers faces up to two years of incarceration.
Erie County District Attorney Michael J. Keane commended the SPCA Serving Erie County, SPCA Chief Officer Lindsey Wood, SPCA Officer Meghan Giles and SPCA Officer Tyler Robertson for their work in the investigation.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Megan E. Mahoney of the Animal Cruelty Unit.