On Friday, October 16th, at about 6:00 p.m., New Rochelle Police Detectives conducted a follow up investigation into allegations of child abuse and animal cruelty involving a local resident. The initial report alleged that a father had assaulted his daughter with a belt during a recent sleepover at his 11 Garden Street apartment. The child resides with her mother in New York City, and the matter was
under active investigation.
During the course of the inquiry, detectives learned that the individual also owned a Cane Corso puppy that was reportedly being mistreated. Investigators responded to the residence to interview neighbors. While in the hallway, they heard the dog yelping in apparent distress. Based on these observations, detectives knocked on the apartment door, where they were met by Xavier Sanchez, who allowed them to enter.
Inside the residence, detectives observed that the dog’s ears were bleeding from apparent cutting injuries, and the animal exhibited significant bruising and swelling to its face. Sanchez was taken into custody in connection with the reported assault involving his daughter.
Due to the severity of the dog’s injuries and its need for immediate veterinary care, the animal was removed from the apartment. The ASPCA was notified and directed investigators to transport the dog to an emergency veterinary facility in Greenburgh, NY for evaluation and treatment. The investigation into both incidents remains ongoing.
ARRESTED:
Xavier Sanchez, 35 years of age, of New Rochelle, NY.
CHARGES:
New York State Penal Law and Agricultural and Markets Law Sections:
120.05 – Assault 2nd Degree – D Felony
260.10 – Endangering the Welfare of a Child – A Misdemeanor
Agriculture & Markets Law §353 – Torturing or Injuring Animals – A Misdemeanor.