Pătrăuți man arrested for animal mutilation and public disturbance

A 23-year-old man, Ionuț-Iulian H., has been detained in Pătrăuți following allegations of animal cruelty and public disturbance. Criminal investigators from the Animal Protection Bureau ordered his 24-hour detention for offenses including the intentional wounding and mutilation of an animal, as well as disturbing public order.

Authorities report that between August and September 2026, the individual kept a horse in a state of malnutrition and improper conditions, failing to provide necessary medical care. The animal reportedly suffered physical injuries and loss of sight in its right eye due to repeated assaults. On September 11, 2026, the suspect allegedly struck the animal repeatedly with a wooden stick in public on the DJ 208V road, causing visible bodily harm and distressing witnesses. Following his presentation to a judge, a 30-day preventive arrest warrant was issued.