Police charge man in relation to animal abuse investigation

Following an investigation into the allegations of animal abuse, we have charged a 40-year-old man in relation to an incident that occurred earlier this week in the city’s southeast.   

On Tuesday, Aug. 15, 2023, at approximately 7:40 p.m., we received reports of a man actively abusing a dog while walking in the community of Inglewood. A witness confronted the suspect about his behaviour towards the animal during a verbal interaction, and the suspect is believed to have threatened the witness during the exchange.  

Police initially responded to the call and patrolled the area, but were unable to locate the suspect.

At the time, we notified our partners at Calgary Community Standards and the Calgary Humane Society (CHS) of the incident.

Later in the week, on Thursday, Aug. 17, 2023, we received a tip from the public and police were able to identify the man believed to be responsible for the earlier incident. Our members then initiated a joint investigation with the CHS Protection and Investigations Department.

During our investigation, we were made aware that the dog is owned by the Alberta Rescue Foundation (ARF), and was being fostered by the suspect at the time of the incident. ARF immediately removed the dog from the suspect’s care.

On Friday, Aug. 18, 2023, the dog was brought to a designated forensic veterinarian for examination, which found injuries on the dog believed to be consistent with abuse. The dog was released back into the care of ARF for close monitoring while the animal continues to recover.

As a result, we have charged 40-year-old Lawrence CHOW, of Calgary, with:

·       Causing unnecessary suffering to animals

·       Injuring or endangering animals

·       Uttering threats to cause death or bodily harm

·       Assault with a weapon

At the time of the arrest, another dog was seized from CHOW’S care and will remain with the CHS. CHOW is no longer permitted to have animals in his possession.

CHOW will next appear in court on Thursday, Aug. 31, 2023. Further charges could be laid in relation to this incident.

Thank you to our partners at the CHS, ARF and to members of the public for bringing information forward to help us further this investigation.

Anyone with information about this or similar incidents is asked to contact police by calling 403-266-1234. Tips can also be submitted anonymously to Crime Stoppers through any of the following methods:

TALK: 1-800-222-8477

TYPE: www.calgarycrimestoppers.org

APP: P3 Tips

CA23352650/6021