PROVIDENCE, RI — A Providence man stabbed his brother's two dogs, leading one so wounded it was euthanized, police said.
Charles Deluca, 26, was charged with felony assault, malicious injury to or killing of animals and domestic disorderly conduct in connection with the June 14 incident.
Officers responded to a Carleton Street residence that day to investigate a reported animal complaint, the police department said in a media release.
"Upon arrival, officers determined the incident involved a felony assault and the malicious injury to or killing of animals," the release said.
"The preliminary investigation revealed that an altercation occurred after two dogs became involved in a fight with two smaller dogs outside the residence," according to the release. "According to investigators, after the animals had been separated, a dispute escalated between two brothers.
Deluca "entered his residence, retrieved a pocket knife, returned outside, and stabbed two dogs belonging to his brother," the release said.
A "female witness" told of "fearing for her safety" when Deluca "swung the knife in her direction while attacking one of the dogs," according to the release.
The stabbed dogs were treated at a veterinary hospital, per the release.
"One dog, Brunis, sustained a puncture wound to the lung and, despite emergency veterinary care, succumbed to its injuries and was humanely euthanized," the release said. "The second dog, Otis, sustained non-life-threatening stab wounds and was treated and released."
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