Los Angeles, CA — A 32-year-old man accused of depriving ten canines of veterinary care and necessary sustenance, such as food and water, plead no contest today to animal cruelty charges in an East Los Angeles Superior Court. Charges were brought against Mr. Candelario as a result of an animal cruelty investigation by Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Los Angeles (spcaLA).
Pedro Candelario, Jr. (DOB: 02-02-1983), was arraigned on one count misdemeanor animal cruelty in case #EA01153 before Los Angeles Superior County Court Judge Beverly Bourne. Deputy District Attorney George Morris, Jr. prosecuted the case.
Responding to an anonymous tip in June of 2014, spcaLA investigators discovered nine Pit Bull mixes and one Chihuahua mix deprived of veterinary care and necessary sustenance. Some of the dogs endured needless suffering and life threatening complications associated with “painful starvation.” The dogs were immediately seized and brought to spcaLA for recovery. While in custody of spcaLA, the dogs received medical care and were fed a balanced diet.
Mr. Candelario was sentenced to three years of summary probation; may own no animals for five years; 35 days of community service; and 6 months counseling (24 sessions of animal cruelty classes). As a condition of probation, he waived his 4th amendment right and is subject to search and seizure at all times. Any violation of these terms of probation could result in 365 days jail time.
Mr. Candelario is schedule to appear in court April 27, 2015 for a restitution hearing.
Photos and video available upon request.