Livingston Parish Copper Theft Investigation Leads To New Animal Abuse Charges

Livingston Parish Copper Theft Investigation Leads To New Animal Abuse Charges

What began as an investigation into the theft of thousands of pounds of AT&T copper wire has now led to additional felony charges against two Livingston Parish suspects.

According to the Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office, Todd Pearce Jr., 42, and Ashley Landry, 41, were previously arrested after detectives recovered approximately 3,400 pounds of stolen AT&T copper wire during the execution of search warrants at a home in Robert and a business in Hammond. Investigators said the stolen wire was linked to multiple thefts in Livingston Parish and may also be connected to cases in other jurisdictions.

While examining electronic devices seized during the copper theft investigation, detectives say they discovered images and videos that prompted a separate criminal investigation. The Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force was then brought in to assist.

As a result, Pearce now faces additional charges including seven counts of filming or possessing images involving the sexual abuse of an animal, one count of distribution of material involving the sexual abuse of an animal, and two counts of organizing or participating in the sexual abuse of an animal, according to investigators.

Landry has also been charged with one count of filming or possessing images involving the sexual abuse of an animal and two counts of engaging in the sexual abuse of an animal, authorities said.

Both suspects remain in the Livingston Parish Detention Center. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have not ruled out the possibility of additional charges.

As with all criminal cases, the charges are allegations, and both defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

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