Lester Paul Richmond has been indicted for one count of intentionally subjecting a domestic animal to cruel mistreatment, a class five felony, in connection with the death of a puppy.
Scottsdale Police arrested the 36-year-old Richmond and 32-year-old Heather Auditor in late June 2023, for their involvement in the animal cruelty case that left a husky puppy dead and discarded in a Scottsdale alley near Miller Road and Lantham Street.
Scottsdale Police started the investigation on June 27 after the puppy’s body was found by someone walking through the alley. The puppy appeared to have had its mouth taped shut.
Scottsdale detectives discovered surveillance video showing Richmond’s vehicle in the alley during the time frame the puppy was left there. Detectives were able to identify him as the registered owner. After identifying Richmond as a potential lead, investigators were able to obtain video surveillance of Richmond and Auditor talking about getting rid of the puppy.
Richmond has not been located and the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office in conjunction with Scottsdale Police, are asking for the public’s bringing him to justice. Those with any information on Richmond are asked to call Scottsdale Police at 480-312-TIPS.
Under Arizona law, a class five felony is the highest level of punishment for animal abuse a person can face.