DICKINSON, ND ( KXNET ) — A Dickinson man was arrested on May 14 for his alleged involvement in the poisoning of two dogs earlier this month.

On May 8, 2024, the Dickinson Police Department (Dickinson PD) responded to a local veterinarian clinic to meet with the owner of two dogs that were brought to the facility suffering from seizure activity.

One dog died shortly upon arrival, and the other was treated by staff. The ensuing investigation led officers to believe the dogs had ingested meat tainted with rodent poison.

A suspect was identified, and a search warrant was issued for his residence. On May 9, 2024, patrol officers and detectives served the warrant at the residence of 61-year-old James Richard Sawvel.

The Dickinson PD says evidence supporting the poisoning was located at the residence, and an arrest warrant was issued.

Sawvel is initially being charged with two counts of Animal Cruelty (a Class C Felony).

He was taken into custody on May 13 without incident and booked into the Southwest Multi-County Correctional Center. Sawvel is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

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