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TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — The death of a 6-year-old Chihuahua led to the arrest of a man on Tuesday, the Tampa Police Department reported.
The chihuahua’s name was Rufus.
On May 4, at 10 p.m., officers responded to a residence in the 3100 block of W. Cordelia Street.
According to TPD, an investigation revealed that 37-year-old Christopher Malone was intoxicated when he “intentionally inflicted a fatal injury” on the four-pound chihuahua who belonged to a family member.
Credit: Tampa Police Department
Further investigation by Hillsborough County Animal Control confirmed that the animal’s death was caused by blunt force trauma.
“The depravity required to intentionally harm a defenseless, four-pound animal is deeply disturbing,” said Chief Lee Bercaw. “This was a senseless act of violence against a family pet that offered nothing but companionship. Our hearts go out to the family who lost their beloved dog in such a tragic way, and we are committed to ensuring this individual is held fully accountable for his actions.”
Following the findings of Hillsborough County Animal Control, the Tampa Police Department arrested Malone and charged him with aggravated cruelty to an animal.
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