Who is Aaron Hacecky? Man duct-tapes girlfriend's dog's mouth before beating pooch to death
MITCHELL, SOUTH DAKOTA: A case of animal cruelty has shaken the community of South Dakota, as Aaron Hacecky, a 25-year-old man faces grave charges after allegedly beating his girlfriend's dog to death.
Aaron Hacecky was arrested on July 30 in connection with the incident that saw him reportedly using his bare hands to attack the animal, while also employing duct tape to bind the dog's mouth and legs.
What are the charges against Aaron Hacecky?
Aaron Hacecky is currently facing several charges, including animal cruelty, a Class 6 felony that could result in a maximum sentence of two years in prison and a $4,000 fine.
Additionally, he is charged with possession of a controlled substance, specifically marijuana wax, which is classified as a Class 5 felony carrying a potential sentence of five years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
Furthermore, Hacecky is charged with possession of drug paraphernalia, a misdemeanor offense.
According to details outlined in the probable cause affidavit obtained by The Daily Republic, officers from the Mitchell Police Department were dispatched to a residence on West 12th Street in response to a domestic incident.
Upon their arrival, officers witnessed Hacecky allegedly assaulting a black lab by repeatedly punching the animal in the head using a closed fist.
The officers took quick action to apprehend Hacecky, restraining him in handcuffs to ensure the safety of the animal.
Disturbingly, the dog, later identified as "Buddy," had suffered not only from the brutal beating but also from the tightly bound duct tape that had been placed over its mouth and legs.
An officer on the scene noted that the animal was in dire distress, struggling to breathe, with visible signs of rapid, labored breathing, KELO reported.
The officer acted swiftly to remove the duct tape and assess the extent of Buddy's injuries. The dog was actively bleeding from its nose. Despite immediate medical intervention, Buddy's injuries proved to be fatal, and he succumbed to the cruelty he had endured.
Aaron Hacecky's disturbing confession
Hacecky allegedly confessed to the officers about the extent of his brutality. He admitted that the dog was his girlfriend's pet, but he claimed that Buddy's behavior, including defecating and urinating in the house, had prompted his violent outburst.
Hacecky went on to describe how he had bound the dog before subjecting it to repeated punches and kicks. Additional details emerged from Hacecky's account, revealing the full extent of his cruelty.
He reportedly paused his assault to rinse his hands of blood, only to return to the yard and continue the attack. The officer's report indicates that no visible puncture wounds or bleeding cuts were observed on Hacecky's body, despite his claims of being bitten by the dog.
In a tragic aftermath, Buddy was rushed to a veterinarian but could not overcome the severity of his injuries, ultimately succumbing to the cruelty he had endured.
A subsequent welfare check on his residence led to the discovery of drug-related items, including marijuana wax. This discovery resulted in an additional felony charge against Hacecky.
Hacecky's case is currently progressing through the legal system. He was released from custody after posting a $4,000 bond, and he entered a plea of not guilty to the charges on August 15. His next court appearance is scheduled for November 21 for a status hearing.
