Erie County District Attorney John J. Flynn announces that 28-year-old Kyle Ribarich of Hamburg pleaded guilty to the highest sustainable charge of one count of Overdriving, Torturing and Injuring Animals (Class “A” misdemeanor under New York Agriculture and Markets Law).

On November 13, 2021, at approximately 10:30 a.m., the defendant intentionally caused injuries to a 4-month-old Rottweiler puppy under his care by throwing the dog to the ground multiple times. The defendant also hit the dog with his hand and closed fist several times. The incident occurred inside of a home in the Town of Hamburg. The dog was taken to a veterinarian by the owner to undergo surgery for a broken leg.

Ribarich faces a maximum of one year in jail when he is sentenced on August 5, 2022 at 10:00 a.m. He continues to remain released on his own recognizance as the charge is non-qualifying for bail.

A temporary order of protection remains in effect for the owner of the injured dog.

DA Flynn commends Special Agent William Heine of the SPCA Serving Erie County for his work in the investigation.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Christine M. Garvey of the Animal Cruelty Unit.