Massachusetts man arrested, online fundraiser created, after cost of care for abused dog mounts

A Massachusetts man is facing a disturbing charge.

According to police, on Wednesday, at approximately 5:15 p.m., Officers David Brooks, Nicholas Caruso, and Spencer Donovan responded to an address on Nelson Street in Webster to effectuate the arrest of 26-year-old Cordell Gignilliat pursuant to an arrest warrant issued out of the Dudley District Court.

The arrest warrant was issued as a result of a criminal investigation into Animal Cruelty conducted by Officer Robert Rockwood and Animal Control Officer Desiree Roussin. Gignilliat was charged with 3 counts of Animal Cruelty as a result of that investigation.

Gignilliat was arrested without incident at his residence.

The dog involved in this unfortunate incident is Ziggy. She has suffered extensive medical issues, believed to be the result of the abuse that she had suffered. She is in need of additional treatments and diagnostic imaging that is expected to exceed $6,000, a figure that would cripple the current budget for Animal Control in Webster and render any further needs relative to the health and welfare of animals in our care unattainable.

A GoFundMe fundraiser has been organized for Ziggy’s expenses.