HAHNVILLE — A St. Charles Parish man will spend the next five years in prison after a dog he stomped had to be put to death.

Rashard C. Poche, 37, of Killona pleaded guilty Thursday and was sentenced by Judge M. Lauren Lemmon to five years confinement with the Louisiana Department of Corrections.

St. Charles Parish District Attorney Joel Chaisson II said there is no set rule for a jail sentence in a case like this, but added he is pleased with the results, which includes mandatory psychological evaluation for Poche after he leaves prison.

Along with his evaluation after being released from jail, Poche will have a year of parole revocation and not be allowed to own any animals for five years.

Chaisson said Poche “viscously” stomped on an acquaintance’s small Chihuahua, and the animal had to be humanely euthanized because of injuries sustained in the attack.

Chaisson said he “strongly feels” anyone who treats an animal in the way Poche did needs an evaluation, adding some studies say those who commit cruelty to animals are likely to be cruel to humans as well.

“This conviction sends a strong message that perpetrators of crimes such as this will be vigorously prosecuted by my office,” Chaisson said.

“I want to commend the excellent work of my prosecutor and the St. Charles Parish Sheriff’s Office in securing this conviction.”

Poche was arrested Feb. 20 and later indicted by a St. Charles Parish Grand Jury with a count of Aggravated Cruelty to Animals.

Poche was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Rochelle Champagne Fahrig, Chaisson said.

— By Raquel Derganz Baker