An East Boston man was arraigned on a slew of animal cruelty charges Thursday after investigators say he abused and mistreated a German shepherd for months.
Armani Dorshi, 27, is scheduled to be arraigned on six counts of animal cruelty and six counts of animal cruelty by custodian, according to the Suffolk County DA’s office.
The DA’s office said investigators received several reports between September and December of Doshi abusing the young female German shepherd. Witnesses reported hearing the dog crying throughout the day and allegedly saw Doshi walking the dog by holding her in a headlock, causing her to walk on just her hind legs. Some reported seeing Doshi lie on the dog’s neck when she barked in public spaces.
Maintenance in Doshi’s building also reported bite marks on a door frame, wall, and inside of the door when they were asked to repair a closet in his apartment. The dog was often locked in the closet with no light, food or water, the DA says.
“During the holiday season many pets receive even more attention and affection from the families who love and care for them. But there are always the heartbreaking exceptions, and we will hold people accountable for cruel and abusive behavior whenever we can,” District Attorney Kevin Hayden said.