PHOENIX — A 54-year-old man wanted on 117 counts of animal cruelty was arrested Thursday following an hourslong standoff with Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office (YCSO) deputies near Wickenburg, authorities said.
Domenic Anthony Asprella, who had been evading law enforcement for more than four years, was taken into custody at a home in Congress around 12:30 p.m. after surrendering to deputies. The standoff began around 7:30 a.m. when officers surrounded the residence.
YCSO’s SWAT team and crisis negotiators were deployed to the scene to ensure a peaceful resolution.
Deputies removed one dog and 39 cats from the property. Most of the animals appeared to be in good health, according to officials.
In addition to the animal cruelty charges, Asprella was wanted on two outstanding warrants, including one for failure to appear in court.
The case comes as Arizona continues to strengthen animal protection laws under legislation such as Jerry’s Law, which increased penalties for severe animal cruelty offenses.
