ALBUQUERQUE – A man with a history of violent offenses is facing new charges after police say he shot and killed two dogs during an argument.
Justin Leverette, 31, was taken into custody following an incident on August 25. According to Albuquerque police, Leverette was arguing with his girlfriend’s two brothers while sitting in his car. During the confrontation, one of the men’s dogs, named Cinderella, approached the vehicle. Investigators say Leverette grabbed the dog by the neck and shot it before driving away.
Leverette is now charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, extreme animal cruelty, felon in possession of a firearm, and shooting from a vehicle.
Court records show Leverette has a criminal history dating back a decade. He was convicted in 2021 for shooting at someone from his car near the Siegel Select Extended Living off University Boulevard. He served five years in prison and two years on parole, which he violated last year. His record includes multiple charges for aggravated assault, battery, and firearm-related offenses.
The state is requesting that Leverette remain in custody until trial, citing his violent history.
