Los Angeles, CA — Martha Salmeron (08-22-81) and Pedro Cruz (05-21-62) pleaded no contest before Judge Karen A. Gauff yesterday (11/3/2016) in Dept. 5 at Compton Courthouse on charges stemming from an animal cruelty investigation conducted by Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Los Angeles (spcaLA). The case, number 6CS04300, was prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Osman Abbasi. The pair was sentenced to three (3) years summary probation, sixteen (16) animal cruelty classes, more than $11,000 restitution, and may not possess animals for five years.
In March 2016, an anonymous tip to the spcaLA Animal Cruelty Tipline (1-800-540-SPCA) led spcaLA Humane Officers to the 9500 block of S. Main Street in Los Angeles. Upon arrival, the officers found two adult Doberman mixes, Batman and Robin, living in a filthy area filled with debris and their own feces, with no access to food or water. The dogs were dirty, had skin conditions, multiple engorged ticks, and localized hair loss. Both dogs appeared underweight, with ribs, spine and hip bones clearly visible. One had an open wound on his back and the other seemed unable to stand, lying down shortly after rising. Both dogs were taken into protective custody immediately.
The investigation then led to additional business locations operated by Salmeron/Cruz: Light Building Material and Spanish Cabinets at 9524 S. Main St.; 7625 Compton Ave; and 1025 W. Florence Ave all owned/operated by Salmeron/Cruz. spcaLA seized multiple animals, including birds and a pregnant dog (who went on to have a litter of 15 puppies), found in similar states of neglect as Batman and Robin.
After receiving treatment from spcaLA, all the animals but one recovered and were adopted. One animal remains at spcaLA – a male Pit Bull mix named Rolando.
L-R, Rolando upon seizure, Rolando today
Rolando has recovered from his physical ailments, but his emotional wounds have taken much longer to heal. Through the dedication of spcaLA staff and volunteers, Rolando has made vast improvements. He shows signs of a happy dog and like most, his favorite rewards are yummy dog treats and affection. spcaLA is hopeful that he will find a loving home where he can receive the tender care that all pets deserve. Anyone interested in adopting Rolando, may contact spcaLA at 1-888-spcaLA-1.
“I got into the business of preventing cruelty to animals because I cannot abide a bully,” said spcaLA President, Madeline Bernstein. “My staff, volunteers, and I work tirelessly to stand up to bullies of most cowardly sort: animal abusers.” A job well done, according to Deputy District Attorney Osman Abbasi who said, “Thanks to the hard and diligent work from spcaLA, all the animals in this case are now safe and justice has been served.”
spcaLA is the only private animal welfare organization in Los Angeles that is also Law Enforcement. spcaLA Humane Officers hold the same powers of Peace Officers in the state of California when investigating animal cruelty. spcaLA is a non-profit agency that relies on donations for its programs and services, including animal cruelty investigations. To donate, please visit spcaLA.com or call 323-730-5300 x233.