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A male suspect who tossed an injured cat into a dumpster was arrested yesterday afternoon and he is now facing felony charges of animal cruelty.
The arrest came just hours after the City of Mission Viejo issued a press release today seeking the public’s help in identifying the individual who was captured on surveillance footage tossing the cat into a dumpster.
“Through our social media, the cat owner came forward and identified the man was her roommate seen in the video, and we conducted an investigation and have probable cause that the suspect was in violation of animal cruelty,” said Mission Viejo Animal Services Supervisor Kyle Werner.
The man was taken into custody with assistance of the Orange County Sheriff’s Department.
The City of Mission Viejo Animal Services is grateful to the media for its vast coverage and residents who stepped up to help this cat in need.
The injured cat, BooBoo, remains under veterinary care and is improving. She was examined by a leading forensic veterinarian this morning and is receiving continued care at a partner hospital. Her owner came forward and is assisting the MVAS investigation team with information about the male suspect who injured and tossed her cat in a dumpster.
With her help, the video evidence, and other information, there is probable cause to press charges against the man in the video. As reported by the City of Mission Viejo last night, he was taken into custody.
“We want to extend our sincere gratitude to the Orange County Sheriff’s Department for collaborating with us on this arrest and for taking the suspect into custody,” said Animal Services Director Brynn Lavison. “We also want to thank our nonprofit Dedicated Animal Welfare Group (DAWG) for being willing to assist any animal in need that arrives at our shelter and specifically for helping with the medical care of BooBoo. Most importantly, we want the public to know how deeply we are moved by the outpouring of care and concern for BooBoo. Many of you have donated to her care; others have inquired about her adoption status; and most have expressed their disdain for animal abuse. We feel proud to be part of a pet-loving community that truly cares about the animals who share our lives.”
BooBoo will eventually reunite with her loving owner, who was also a victim of this heinous crime.
However, before that happens, MVAS will ensure that BooBoo is healthy, and our shelter is committed to her long-term safety.
The identity of the man arrested was not immediately available.
Donations to support Willow’s recovery and other animals in need can be made to the Dedicated Animal Welfare Group at dawg.org.
In California, animal abuse is taken very seriously and is covered under Penal Code Section 597. The penalties for animal abuse can vary depending on the severity of the offense and the circumstances involved:
- Misdemeanor Charges:
- Penalties: Up to one year in county jail and/or a fine of up to $20,000.
- Examples: Less severe cases of neglect or cruelty that do not result in significant injury or death.
- Felony Charges:
- Penalties: Up to three years in state prison and/or a fine of up to $20,000.
- Examples: Severe cases involving significant injury or death, or those with malicious intent.
The law covers a wide range of actions, including maiming, mutilating, torturing, wounding, or killing an animal. It also includes neglect, such as failing to provide essential food, water, shelter, or veterinary care.
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