Calgary animal abuser accused of breaching lifetime ban on having animals

CALGARY – A 20-year-old Calgary man who did jail time for abusing, starving and killing a dog and a cat has been re-arrested.

Calgary police say Nicolino Camardi has been charged with breaching his bail conditions and is accused of possessing pets in violation of a lifetime ban imposed by the court.

Camardi pleaded guilty in December to wilfully causing unnecessary pain, suffering or injury to an animal.

The Calgary Humane Society began an investigation in January 2014 after a dog was found dead with tape around its muzzle and a dead cat was discovered with tape covering most of its face.

An examination at a veterinarian’s office determined the dog had suffered chronic malnourishment before its death while the cat had been strangled and had injuries to its head, tail and hind limbs.

During the trial, Justice George Gaschler called Camardi “a very troubled and severely addicted young man.”

Gaschler said there was a need for close community supervision, saying Camardi was at risk of relapse.