Warwick Man Charged With “Malicious Killing of Animals” After Dead Pets Found in Home

Warwick Man Charged With “Malicious Killing of Animals” After Dead Pets Found in Home

Warwick Police have charged a man with the malicious killing of animals - and more.

On Thursday, Warwick police announced that on May 27, officers responded to 200 Negansett Avenue following a 911 hang-up call. 

Upon arrival, police said that officers encountered Michael Gast Jr., a 30-year-old resident of the home, who appeared to be under the influence of narcotics.  

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Animal Cruelty Charges 

Police say that during the interaction, Gast "became combative and assaulted two Warwick Police officers." 

According to police, he was "subdued and transported by Warwick Fire Department personnel to Kent County Memorial Hospital for evaluation."

Police say as officers conducted a protective sweep of the residence to ensure the safety of any occupants, they "found the interior in deplorable condition."

"Officers discovered one deceased dog and one deceased parrot inside the home. Warwick Animal Control was called to the scene and removed two additional dogs, a cat, and two parrots from the residence."

Following an investigation, Gast was charged with the following offenses:  

One Count – Malicious Killing of Animals  
One Count – Unnecessary Cruelty to Animals (Death Resulting)  
Five Counts – Unnecessary Cruelty to Animals  
Two Counts – Simple Assault  
One Count – Resisting Arrest  

Gast was held overnight at the Warwick Police Department and appeared before a judge at Kent County 3rd District Court on May 28.