By Josh Margolis
HAVRE, Mont. (NMB) – A Havre man was arraigned in Hill County District Court on Monday after allegedly burning a family dog to death and assaulting his father.
Raven Ray Wolfgang Lanier, 23, appeared virtually from the Hill County Detention Center and pleaded not guilty to the felonies of aggravated animal cruelty, possession of explosives and assault with a weapon before Judge Kaydee Snipes-Ruiz.
Lanier also pleaded not guilty to misdemeanor partner or family member assault (1st offense).
According to court documents, Lanier is alleged to have burned a dog to death in a bathtub on March 10th by using lighter fluid.
The previous day, Lanier is alleged to have assaulted his father by grabbing his arm and threatening to stab him in the neck with a steak knife.
No future court dates have been set, but the defense is planning to file a motion to lower Lanier’s bail.
Lanier remains in the Hill County Detention Center with a total bail of $100,000.
