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Trapped Dog Pushes New Law to Take Effect

Reported:
11/13/2021
Location:
Chimayo, NM - USA
Species:
Dog
Trap Type:
Snare
Incident Date:
11/25/2018
Victim's Disposition:
dead
Victim's Name:
Roxy
Legal Action:
Yes

Summary:

CHIMAYO, NM – An 8-year-old heeler mix named Roxy died while out for a walk in a federal Bureau of Land Management recreation area at Santa Cruz Lake when she became trapped in a snare. Roxy strangled to death as her owner tried to free her from the snare. The case prompted New Mexico legislators to approve a ban on the use of traps, snares, and wildlife poison on public lands. The Wildlife Conservation and Public Safety Act, also called Roxy’s Law, takes effect in April 2022. The man responsible for setting the trap was charged with crimes regarding trapping fur-bearing animals, including trapping within 25 yards (23 meters) of a public road, failing to have identifying information on his traps, and failing to check his traps daily. Allegedly, during the trial, Game and Fish deleted thousands of photographs related to the case, in addition to losing other pieces of evidence, such as parts of the trap that snared Roxy.

Result:

A state District Court jury on Wednesday acquitted Marty Cordova, 44, of Chimayo of crimes regarding trapping fur-bearing animals, including trapping within 25 yards (23 meters) of a public road, failing to have identifying information on his traps and failing to check his traps daily.