Former Schofield Man Accused of Beating a Cat to Death Has Trial Set

Wednesday, June 5th, 2024 -- 12:00 PM

(Mike Leischner, WSAU) A one-time Schofield resident accused of beating his former girlfriend’s cat to within inches of her life has had new trial dates set for felony charges of animal abuse.

According to Mike Leischner with WSAU, Andrew Gehr was scheduled for a two-day trial on July 30th and 31st for one felony count of mistreating animals resulting in death and a misdemeanor for intentionally mistreating animals.

Charges stem from the death of a cat that was found in a shed with severe injuries including an eye that had popped out of its socket. The 33-year-old initially denied knowing anything about the cat’s injuries, going so far as to help the family look for the pet. He later admitted to punching her.

The cat was rushed to a local vet where she was put down. The responding veterinarians said the cat likely had a loss of brain function and was blind from the abuse. Court records show Gehr recently moved to Mankato, Minnesota.

A jury status hearing has been scheduled for July 2nd ahead of the trial later that month. If found guilty he faces up to 3.5 years in state prison.

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