ASPCA® Announces Arrest of Manhattan Man for Severely Beating Dog

April 2, 2009

NEW YORK—Humane Law Enforcement agents of the ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) arrested Manhattan resident Richard Smith earlier this week for aggravated animal cruelty and assaulting his girlfriend.

On March 31, the suspect was arrested for severely beating a 2-year-old Shiba Inu belonging to his girlfriend’s sister on separate occasions during the last few months.  The dog, named Michigan, was seen in distress on March 25 and was taken to the ASPCA’s Bergh Memorial Animal Hospital where veterinarians discovered that she had sustained a dozen fractured ribs and suffered from trauma.  Michigan was released from the hospital and reunited with her owner.

Smith, 24, was charged with one count of aggravated animal cruelty and assault.  He faces up to two years in jail for aggravated animal cruelty, one year for assault and a $2,000 fine.

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About the ASPCA®
Founded in 1866, the ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) was the first animal welfare organization to be established in North America and today serves as the nation’s leading voice for vulnerable and victimized animals. As a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation with more than two million supporters nationwide, the ASPCA is committed to preventing cruelty to dogs, cats, equines, and farm animals throughout the United States. The ASPCA assists animals in need through on-the-ground disaster and cruelty interventions, behavioral rehabilitation, animal placement, legal and legislative advocacy, and the advancement of the sheltering and veterinary community through research, training, and resources. For more information, visit www.ASPCA.org, and follow the ASPCA on Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok.

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