NPSO
A tip to the
Natchitoches
P a r i s h
Sheriff ’s Office
A n i m a l
Services Unit
led to the arrest
of a Natchez
man on animal
c r u e l t y
charges.
The investigation
began
Tuesday, Oct. 17 at 10:24 a.m.
when Natchez Police and
Natchitoches Parish Sheriff ’s
Deputies responded to reports
of several dogs malnourished
at a residence in the 100 block
of Johnson Loop in Natchez.
Authorities discovered nine
pit bulldogs tied to various
locations in the rear of the
residence without shelter,
food or water.
Some of the dogs appeared
malnourished.
Sgt. Bruce with the
Natchitoches Parish Sheriff ’s
Corrections Animal Services
Unit responded to the scene.
Deputies say while photographing
and collecting evidence,
they discovered broom
handles, three pound weights,
a sledge hammer and a large
knife where they dogs were
being kept.
The owner is identified as
Alvin Ray Helaire, 27.
As the investigation progressed,
deputies requested
the assistance of the
Natchitoches Animal Control
Unit to collect the dogs.
The dogs. ranging in ages of
approximately 6 months-1
year, were transported to a
Natchitoches Veterinary
Clinic for evaluation.
Helaire, of the 100 block of
Johnson Loop, Natchez, is
charged with 9-counts of
Cruelty to Animals.
Helaire remains in the
Natchitoches Detention
Center awaiting bond.
Deputies say during the
investigation, they received
information that some of the
dogs may be stolen.
The dogs were reportedly
also being allegedly trained
for dog fighting purposes.
If you recently had a pit
bulldog stolen contact Sgt.
Bruce at the Natchitoches
Parish Detention Center at
357-9300.
All dogs are being cared for
and housed at the
Natchitoches Parish
Detention Center Animal
Services building.
