Local man arrested for allegedly fracturing skull of cat that led to death

A local man has been arrested concerning the eventual death of a pet cat.

According to RISPCA, on November 10, 2020, the Rhode Island Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, Division of Law Enforcement was contacted by a local veterinary clinic regarding an injured domestic short-haired cat that had been presented for care on November 7, 2020.

The veterinary clinic stated that upon presentation, it was noted that the cat was suffering from substantial injuries including a skull fracture.

Staff at the veterinary clinic became concerned when the description of how the injury occurred did not fit the extent of the injuries. The veterinary clinic attempted extensive lifesaving measures before it was determined that the cat required humane euthanasia.

After speaking with the vet, officers from the Division of Law Enforcement responded to the owner’s address and met with the owner and her boyfriend. The boyfriend, later identified as 26-year-old Corey Hourahan, admitted to officers that he had “struck” the cat, causing the injuries.

Hourahan was taken into custody without incident and later turned over to the Cranston Police Department for booking and charging. Hourahan was charged with one count of malicious injury to an animal, a felony, in violation of Rhode Island General Law 4-1-5.

He was later released on $10,000 personal recognizance.