Man Admits to Violent and Evil Attack on Chihuahua, Faces a Year Behind Bars

A Buffalo man who severely injured a small dog earlier this year is now awaiting sentencing after entering a guilty plea in Erie County Court.

Deandre Rogers, 30, stood before State Supreme Court Justice Paul B. Wojtaszek on Thursday and admitted guilt to one count of attempted aggravated cruelty to animals, a Class A misdemeanor under New York State Law. The charge stems from a disturbing case that left a 9-year-old Chihuahua with life-threatening injuries.

The attack occurred on May 10th when Rogers intentionally struck the dog - an older female Chihuahua named Bella - inside a residence on the 200 block of Geary Street. Authorities confirmed the injuries were severe. Bella was rushed to BluePearl Pet Hospital in Cheektowaga where veterinarians treated her for skull fractures and other significant trauma before she was transferred to the SPCA Serving Erie County for continued rehabilitation.

Following her recovery, Bella was adopted by a new owner.

Rogers, who remains free on his own recognizance while he awaits sentencing, could receive up to 364 days in jail when he returns to court on January 23rd, 2026. The Erie County District Attorney’s Office said it will push for the maximum sentence as well as a lifetime “securing order” preventing Rogers from possessing or caring for animals. A temporary order is already in place.

District Attorney Michael J. Keane praised the efforts of the SPCA Serving Erie County and the officers who handled the case, noting the contributions of SPCA Chief Officer Lindsey Wood along with Officers Meghan Giles and Tyler Robertson.

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Man Admits to Violent and Evil Attack on Chihuahua, Faces a Year Behind Bars