Man faces jail after squeezing child’s hamster to death

The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday

Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US

Please enter a valid email address

Please enter a valid email address

SIGN UP

I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy

A Texas mans faces up to 25 years in prison after allegedly squeezing a child’s hamster to death.

Roosevelt James Johnson, 34, allegedly “tortured a young child’s hamster,” according to Animal Care Services and the San Antonio Police Department.

The shocking incident, in which Mr Johnson is accused by ACS of squeezing the “child’s pet to death during a domestic violence disturbance”, took place on 1 May.

He was arrested last week for cruelty to a non-livestock animal, domestic violence and other outstanding warrants.

Officials say that Mr Johnson faces such a long prison sentence because of the felony animal cruelty charge, as well as charges for alleged gun and drug possession.

“Due to past convictions and other outstanding felony charges, including gun and drug possession, Johnson now faces up to 25 years in prison if convicted,” said ACS in statement.

Court records show that Mr Johnson has a criminal record dating back to 2006, according to KSAT.

The arrest was a result of a joint investigation by Animal Care Services and the San Antonio Police Department’s North Patrol Property Crimes Unit.