Pair facing animal cruelty in case where hamsters, rat and cat targeted

By Mike Vlasveld

Two people have been arrested in a Gatineau animal cruelty investigation.

The investigation began back in June, following a fire in an abandoned farm building on Lépine Avenue in the Buckingham area.

The fire appeared to be suspicious, so police secured a perimeter to protect the scene. 

The SPVG canine unit was called in and led police to another building not far from the scene of the fire, where officers found evidence that there may have been acts of cruelty to animals.

The forensic team was then called, which eventually lead to the arrests of a 20-year-old on August 21.

Dave Larose-Guertin faced animal cruelty charges in a Quebec courtroom and was issued a psychiatric assessment.

Through a search warrant, the police were able to rescue a small rodent that had recently been purchased by the accused. The animal is doing well and is now with the SPCA.

Officers also seized some equipment during the arrest of Larose-Guertin, which led to a police operation Wednesday morning on Charles Street in the Buckingham area.

At that scene, a 16-year-old was arrested and another search warrant was executed to seize computer equipment.

The teen, whose identity can not be revealed, was in youth court Wednesday. 

He should face charges of animal cruelty, including killing or injuring animals, publishing obscene images, and possession of a prohibited weapon.

The animals targeted in this case are hamsters, a rat and a cat. The cat was found tied up by a local resident and survived. He was particularly dehydrated and hungry when he was found, but was taken care of by the SPCA and is doing well.

The investigation is still underway.

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