A 13-year old has been arrested and charged for killing animals and cruelty to animals, causing unnecessary suffering.
On July 7, 2023, at approximately 11:55 pm, Moose Lake RCMP received a report of animal cruelty that had occurred on July 6, 2023, in Mosakahiken Cree Nation. A community member called after seeing a dead puppy hanging from a stop sign.
Investigation determined that a group of approximately 10 youth, aged 9-13, had been in a park in the community in the early morning hours of July 6, and were hurting several puppies. The youth were chased from the park by a community member, who then discovered the puppies. They were all deceased.
When police arrived at the location, three deceased puppies were given to the officers by the community member, and a fourth puppy was found when officers searched the area. The puppies had all been significantly injured before their death.
As per the Youth Criminal Justice Act, anyone under 12 years of age cannot be charged.
“This is a very concerning act for the RCMP and the community,” said Sergeant Rick Sinclair, Moose Lake RCMP Detachment Commander. “Many community members care deeply for their dogs. We appreciate the assistance we received during the investigation. We are working with the community and our partners to find a way forward, focusing on healing and providing resources to families.”
