By: Associated Press//August 11, 2014//
LA CROSSE, Wis. (AP) — A La Crosse woman now faces a felony charge in the death of an aged basset hound owned by her ex-boyfriend.
Selina Boulton was charged in December with two misdemeanors but prosecutors elevated the charges on Friday.
The La Crosse Tribune reports the 32-year-old is now charged with mistreatment of animals, a felony, and disorderly conduct. Her preliminary hearing will be Aug. 15.
Police reports say officers found 13-year-old Jixer dead Nov. 14, its choke collar cinched tightly to its neck and a frying pan nearby.
An autopsy determined Jixer died of asphyxiation/respiratory failure as a result of severe trauma. Court records say the dog had fractured ribs, a collapsed lung and a stab wound.
Boulton had a 0.10 percent blood-alcohol concentration.
Information from: La Crosse Tribune, http://www.lacrossetribune.com