OAKDALE, LA (WAFB) -
A man who pleaded guilty to animal cruelty charges after nearly 100 snakes were found on his property must spend a year in jail and pay a $1,000 fine.
According to the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, a judge sentenced David Beauchemin, 43, of Oakdale to two years in jail, but suspended one of them.
The judge added the fine must be paid within 60 days of his release or he will have to serve the suspended year.
The LDWF said Beauchemin will receive credit for time served since May.
He pleaded guilty to aggravated and simple cruelty to animals.
He and his wife, Tawni, were both cited, but authorities don't know where she is. She is now a wanted fugitive.
The Allen Parish Sheriff's Office searched the couple's home on March 19, 2010 after receiving a complaint claiming the Beauchemins were illegally selling animals on the internet.
Deputies said the home was portrayed as a safe haven animal shelter. Wildlife and Fisheries agents were called in after pythons were found at the house.
The snakes have been placed at a farm in Florida.
Related Stories
Dozens of snakes found on man's property
Nearly 100 snakes seized from Wood Co. property
Allen Parish Animal Rescue Investigation
Oakdale couple cited for illegal possession of pythons
Copyright 2011 WAFB. All rights reserved.
David Beauchemin (Source: Wood County Sheriff's Office)
All content © Copyright 2000 - 2012 WorldNow and WAFB, a Raycom Media Station. 