Man Who Brutally Beat Two Dogs Sentenced to Prison

The Shocking Discovery

In late July 2025, the animal protection group Action Protection Animale (APA) intervened in Pierrefitte-sur-Seine, Seine-Saint-Denis. Inside a building hall, they found Rio, a one-year-old dog, his face swollen, covered in bruises, open wounds, and with a badly damaged eye.

At the suspect’s apartment, police discovered Cardi, a six-year-old female dog bearing the scars of repeated abuse and forced breeding. Both animals were immediately seized and taken to safety.

Rio was later diagnosed with cranial fractures, while Cardi suffered multiple contusions and psychological trauma. Both dogs were hospitalized for several days before beginning their long recovery.

A Pattern of Violence

When questioned, the man denied responsibility, claiming that Rio had “escaped and returned in that condition on his own.” Investigators, however, uncovered bloody sticks, audio, and video recordings of the beatings, leaving little doubt about the cruelty inflicted.

APA filed an official complaint for acts of animal cruelty, and the suspect—already known to the justice system—was placed in pre-trial detention.

Justice in Bobigny

On Friday, September 5, 2025, the Bobigny Criminal Court handed down its verdict. The man was sentenced to:

• 6 months in prison (firm sentence)
• 10-year ban on owning animals
• Definitive confiscation of Rio and Cardi

He returned directly to prison following the judgment to serve his sentence.

A New Beginning for Rio and Cardi

Thankfully, both dogs are recovering well under the care of APA and are now ready to be adopted. The association continues to highlight their story on social media, reminding the public that animal abuse remains far too frequent but that justice can prevail.

Their case stands as both a warning and a beacon of hope: while cruelty persists, so too does resilience—and the possibility of a better life.