St. Mary Parish Sheriff Gary Driskell Announces Arrest of a Patterson Man in Shooting Death of a Canine

Gerard Leon Harris, 44, Patterson, LA, was arrested on April 18, 2025, at 8:44 am on a warrant for cruelty to animals-aggravated.

On March 6, 2025, a deputy was dispatched to the area of Zenor Road near the ponds to locate a dog that was possibly shot.  Upon arrival, the deputy spoke to a man who had found the dog. The deputy saw that the dog had multiple wounds consistent with gunshot wounds. The dog was tied to a tree, and when untied, she had trouble walking as the front legs were severely injured or broken, and she was severely malnourished.

The incident was turned over to SMPSO Investigations Division, and a detective opened an investigation. Anonymous tips led the detective to Harris. Through the investigation, evidence was obtained that the dog was in Harris's possession, care, and control. The detective obtained information that established Harris as the person who shot the dog. A warrant was obtained for Harris on the charge of cruelty to animals-aggravated.

On April 18, 2025, SMPSO Patrol Deputies made contact with Harris and transported him to the St. Mary Parish Law Enforcement Center for booking. Bail was set at $20,000.

"Animal abuse is a crime against the defenseless. Those who commit these horrific acts will be arrested and prosecuted, "said Sheriff Gary Driskell. "It takes time and work to get the evidence needed to make an arrest. I want to thank our detective and patrol deputies who worked this case and relentlessly pursued the evidence needed for the arrest. I also want to thank the members of our community who assisted in this process. When law enforcement and the community work together, we can accomplish great things."

 

Lt. David Spencer

Public Information Officer

St. Mary Parish Sheriff's Office