ARIZONA – Maricopa County authorities are seeking public assistance in locating Lester Paul Richmond, 36, indicted on a felony charge of animal cruelty. Richmond is accused of torturing and killing a 2-month-old puppy, whose body was found with its mouth taped shut and a cord around its neck in an alley earlier this year.
Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell announced the indictment, stating Richmond faces a class five felony, the highest level of punishment for animal abuse under Arizona law. This charge can carry a maximum sentence of up to two years and six months in state prison.
Richmond and Heather Auditor, 32, were initially arrested in July for their involvement in the death and abandonment of the puppy. The Scottsdale Police Department launched an extensive investigation after receiving a report on June 27 about the discovery of the puppy’s body near Miller Road and Latham Street.
Investigators canvassed the neighborhood, conducted interviews, and reviewed surveillance footage, which led them to footage showing Richmond’s vehicle with an Arizona “Pet Friendly” license plate in the alley at the time of the incident. Ironically, these “Pet-friendly” license plates are a key source of funding for the state’s animal spay, neuter, and shelter programs.
The authorities continue their search for Richmond, urging anyone with information to come forward.