Las Cruces Man Sentenced to 18 Months for Felony Animal Abuse

LAS CRUCES, NM — Doña Ana County District Attorney Fernando Macias announced today that Luis Javier Cobos Jr., 37, has been sentenced to 18 months in the custody of the New Mexico Corrections Department. Following a sentencing hearing before District Court Judge Conrad F. Perea, Cobos was taken into immediate custody to begin serving his term for Extreme Cruelty to Animals. In addition to the term of incarceration, Judge Perea imposed a $5,000.00 fine.

The conviction follows an investigation by the Las Cruces Police Department into a February 2025 incident in which Cobos was recorded striking two Basset Hounds, “Billy” and “Nani,” with landscaping rocks. Medical records confirmed that there was significant trauma and acute distress due to the attack.

District Attorney Fernando Macias said, “We believe, and our legal system reminds us, that animals are sentient beings. They are capable of many emotions. When we act to protect them, we aren’t just enforcing the law; we are honoring a shared commitment to basic human decency.”

The District Attorney’s Office wishes to extend its sincere gratitude to the Las Cruces Police Department and the City of Las Cruces Animal Control for their diligent investigation. We also recognize the vital role played by the citizens who witnessed, recorded, and reported this criminal conduct. This case would not have reached this resolution without the community's advocacy, including the many individuals who wrote letters to the Court and the countless others who played an important role in this case. The overwhelming volume of support for Billy and Nani demonstrates that our community possesses a powerful collective conscience and a zero-tolerance policy for brutality.

“The resolution of this case is a direct result of the undeniable evidence captured on video,” said Chief Deputy District Attorney Spencer Willson. “By remanding the Defendant to immediate custody to serve the full 18-month sentence, the Court has affirmed that intentional violence against defenseless animals carries serious, non-negotiable consequences. Our priority was to ensure the law provided a just answer to the suffering Billy and Nani endured. I commend Judge Perea on his commitment to a fair proceeding and for ensuring that justice was served for the victims and our community.”

Reporting and Safety Reminders

The District Attorney’s Office encourages residents to remain vigilant and report any suspected animal mistreatment. Additionally, reminding the public that they should always contact law enforcement first and never approach a suspect directly. “Your safety is paramount—allow the police to investigate and the Courts to determine guilt or innocence,” added Macias.

More News from Alamogordo

• Voices of Change: Art Speaks – Fabric Artists Confront Social Issues Through Quilts at Otero Artspace New Exhibition opens Friday night at Otero Arts
• New Mexico State Party Conventions Underway as March 10 Primary Filing Deadline Looms New Mexico Party Conventions this weekend...