Dog sexually assaulted, man sentenced to max allowed

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Multnomah County Judge Angel Lopez minced no words when he sentenced Fidel Lopez to the maximum penalty allowed by law.

“If it could have been more, I would have gladly given you more,” the judge said.

Fidel Lopez pleaded guilty to sexually assaulting a dog who suffered such extensive internal injuries she was euthanized.

The dog, a Lhaso Apso mix named Estrella, was owned by someone Lopez knew. The owner took Estrella to be checked out at DoveLewis Emergency Animal Hospital after becoming concerned she had been abused.

The case then began on November 18, 2018. An animal sexual assault forensic examination confirmed what they thought. Fidel Lopez was quickly ID’d as a suspect and authorities said he admitted it to investigators. 

On Monday, the 52-year-old Lopez pleaded guilty to aggravated animal abuse and sexually assaulting an animal.

Multnomah County Deputy DA Nicole Jergovic said, “This case was prosecuted to the fullest extent possible under Oregon law.”

Judge Angel Lopez sentenced Fidel Lopez to the maximum possible: 60 days in jail and 3 years probation for each count. He can’t be in possession of a dog for 15 years and he must undergo treatment for those who abuse animals. He has to pay $500 in restitution and may need to undergo drug and alcohol treatment if ordered.

Estrella’s owner supported the resolution of this case, the DA’s Office said.