A 5-year-old Malinois dog named "Choco" was discovered lifeless in an abandoned apartment in Quint-Fonsegrives, near Toulouse (Haute-Garonne), according to La Dépêche. The poor animal is believed to have died of starvation. Its owner, a 37-year-old man, was arrested on Wednesday and now faces charges of mistreatment and cruelty to a domestic animal, causing death. He faces up to five years in prison and a fine of 75,000 euros.
The case began in early April, when the owner's 27-year-old former girlfriend went to the apartment to retrieve her personal belongings. Alarmed by the foul smell and Choco's lack of response, she enlisted the help of a friend to open the door. Both women were horrified to find dead flies, larvae and the dog's lifeless body inside.
According to a source close to the investigation quoted by La Dépêche, Choco would have tried to survive by eating objects, which would have probably poisoned him.
Recognized facts
The police were informed and an investigation was launched. After nearly two weeks of research, the untraceable owner of Choco was located and placed in police custody. Assisted by Me Hugo Groslambert, the man confessed to the facts. The suspect claims to have left the apartment in February after being threatened by armed individuals and would have been too afraid to return. He would also have expressed regrets about the abandonment and death of Choco, according to the regional newspaper. He will soon be tried before the criminal court of Toulouse.
