Dead Puppies Leads To 3 Arrests

Source: OPP
Date: Fri Feb 7 07:15:34 MST 2025

(ATIKAMEKSHENG FIRST NATION, ON) – After a lengthy investigation and tips provided by the public, three people have been charged.



On April 14, 2024, members from the Atikameksheng Anishnawbek Police Service, along with the Nipissing West Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), began a cruelty to animals’ investigation, which involves several deceased puppies abandoned in a blue recycle box at a landfill site, on Reserve Road, Atikameksheng First Nation.

As a result of the investigation, Heather SAWDON, 50 years-of-age, Cody SHAWBONQUIT, 33 years-of-age and Lawrence SHAWBONQUIT, 28 years-of-age, all from Atikameksheng First Nation, have been arrested and charged individually with, cruelty to animals – unnecessary pain, suffering or injury.

The 33-year-old person was held for Bail Court and is scheduled to appear at the Ontario Court of Justice on February 6, 2025, in Sudbury.

The 50-year-old person was released and is scheduled to appear at the Ontario Court of Justice on February 19, 2025, in Sudbury.

The 28-year-old person failed to attend court on February 6, 2025, at the Ontario Court of Justice, in Sudbury, an arrest warrant is being issued.