West Chester police are searching for a man they say attacked his former girlfriend and killed her puppy during a violent argument on April 5. Investigators allege he grabbed the tiny dog and hurled it against a wall. The animal later died, and both the woman and another person who tried to step in were reportedly injured.
According to FOX19, the suspect is Mario Isais Ajanel De La Cruz. Police say he is wanted on domestic violence, assault and "prohibitions concerning companion animals" charges. FOX19 reports the dog, a puppy named Kiriku, died after the attack and that anyone with information should call West Chester Police at 513-777-2231. The outlet adds that De La Cruz is described as five feet, five inches tall, about 160 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes, and that his last known address was in Covington, Kentucky.
Where police say it happened
A Butler County court complaint reviewed by WLWT states that De La Cruz was at a house on Lackawanna Court in the early morning hours of April 5. The complaint, WLWT reports, alleges he grabbed a nine-week-old, 2-pound puppy from the victim’s hands and threw it against a wall. The dog was taken to a veterinarian but did not survive. WLWT notes that police have issued a warrant for his arrest.
Legal context
State law treats cruelty to pets as a criminal offense. Under Ohio Revised Code Section 959.131, "No person shall knowingly cause serious physical harm to a companion animal," a provision often used when an animal suffers severe injury or death. Prosecutors can pursue misdemeanor or felony charges under that section depending on how serious the conduct is and the defendant’s prior record, and penalties vary accordingly.
How to help
West Chester police are asking anyone with information to contact their tip line at 513-777-2231, according to FOX19. Local animal welfare advocates likewise urge residents to report suspected cruelty to regional agencies; the SPCA Cincinnati lists 513-541-6100 as a contact for shelter and cruelty concerns. Police say De La Cruz’s last known address was in Covington, Kentucky, and anyone who sees him is advised not to approach but to call authorities immediately.
