(WBBM NEWSRADIO) — An Aurora man is facing felony charges for allegedly shooting a neighbor’s dog in the head last month when it approached him and his pet — an act that authorities say was not justified.
John Fazzini, 61, of the 300 block of Aster Court, has been charged with one count of aggravated cruelty to animals, one count of reckless discharge of a firearm and one count of criminal damage to property. Bond was set at $100,000 in a court hearing Wednesday.
Fazzini allegedly drew a gun the evening of March 10 and shot a German Shepherd in the face. Authorities say the dog, which belonged to a neighbor, had wriggled out of his harness and approached after Fazzini’s dog barked at it in the 300 block of Shadybrook Lane.
Authorities characterized the shooting as unwarranted. In addition, they say, a 10-year-old girl was nearby and witnessed it.
“It is alleged that without provocation Mr. Fazzini pulled out a loaded handgun and shot a family pet just feet away from family members, including a ten-year-old girl,” DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin said. “These allegations are simply unconscionable. This type of conduct will not be tolerated and will be met with the full force of the law.”
The wounded dog, named Jameson, or Jamo, retreated to its front porch after being shot in the right side of his nose. The bullet exited below his left ear. Fazzini allegedly left the scene.
The dog apparently has made a full recovery after being treated at a veterinarian’s office.
“The Aurora Police Department has zero tolerance for anyone recklessly firing a gun in our city,” Aurora Police Chief Keith Cross said.
Fazzini was arrested Tuesday. He must post $10,000 to be released from jail. His next court date is May 4, prosecutors said.
No further information was available.
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