A man in North Hollywood is facing serious criminal charges after prosecutors say he brutally killed his girlfriend’s pet rabbit during a violent incident.
According to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office, 25-year-old Nikolas Hart is accused of killing a two-month-old rabbit named Momo during a domestic dispute.
Prosecutors say Hart now faces one felony count of animal cruelty along with several misdemeanor charges, including injuring a spouse or cohabitant, attempting to intimidate a victim or witness, and three counts of violating a court order banning contact with the victim.
A judge has also issued a protective order barring Hart from owning, possessing, or caring for any animals.
Authorities allege the incident occurred on February 11 at around 9:00 p.m. while Hart was living with his girlfriend. During a heated altercation, he allegedly stomped on the rabbit before placing it in a trash bag and throwing it from their second-floor apartment.
Investigators say the rabbit died from severe blunt force injuries to the chest, abdomen, and face.
Prosecutors also claim Hart had previously assaulted his girlfriend before the fatal incident involving the animal.
District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman condemned the alleged actions, saying violent behaviour of this nature would be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
Hart has pleaded not guilty to all charges. His preliminary hearing is scheduled for April 16, and bail has been set at $150,000. If convicted, he could face up to eight years in state prison.
