Press Release: ASPCA Arrests Bronx Resident For Attacking Pomeranian with a Mop Handle

(New York, NY) September 12, 2006 -- Special agents of the ASPCA arrested Edwin Roman, 44, on September 10 outside his Bronx residence at 1221 Brook Avenue for assaulting and seriously injuring his family’s pet dog, Lucky.

Following the assault, which occurred on July 18, 2006, the 10-lb. male Pomeranian was taken to NYC Animal Care and Control (AC&C) in Brooklyn by a relative of the suspect. Employees at AC&C alerted the ASPCA; Lucky was removed and taken to the ASPCA’s Bergh Memorial Animal hospital. At the ASPCA, veterinarians performed extensive surgery to correct Lucky’s jaw, which was shattered when the suspect attacked him with a mop handle.

The ASPCA carried out an investigation which led to the arrest of the suspect. Mr. Roman is being charged with one count of aggravated animal cruelty, a felony, and one count of criminal possession of a weapon.

Lucky’s prognosis is good and he is recovering.