AUSTIN, Texas — APD said its Animal Cruelty Unit filed 11 warrants in September, ranging from third-degree felonies to Class A misdemeanors.
For animals removed during a cruelty investigation, a shelter can become part of the case; caring for them while investigators document their condition.
“Most times we’ll do a veterinary exam,” Director of Animal Services, Monica Dangler, said. “And it’s a cruelty exam, so it’s different than just your everyday exam.”
RELATED | Austin police to detail 11 animal cruelty warrants issued in September
APD said its Animal Cruelty Unit filed 11 warrants in September, ranging from third-degree felonies to Class A misdemeanors. (CBS Austin/Jalen Adams)
APD said animal cruelty cases can take time to build. Detectives have to document what they find and gather enough evidence to pursue charges.
CBS Austin asked:
How is APD working with local shelters to make sure these animals are in a place where they have space to heal after being abused?
“Animals that are involved with our cases are housed at the Austin Animal Center,” APD Animal Cruelty Unit Detective Christian Esquivel said. “They have a specific kennel where they will receive medical treatment for as long as it takes.”
For animals removed during a cruelty investigations, a shelter can become part of the case; caring for them while investigators document their condition. (CBS Austin/Brenna Gibbons)
Dangler told us the shelter’s work is funded by city tax dollars.
“Because those animals are not our property, and they are part of a case, we’re only gonna be doing medical workups and things that are required and that are lifesaving,” Dangler said.
One case APD discussed involved 64-year-old Nelson Egwu, who faces a felony and a misdemeanor.
One case APD discussed involved 64-year-old Nelson Egwu, who faces a felony and a misdemeanor. (Austin Police Department)
Officers responded to a report on August 31, where two dogs living inside a hot and unsanitary garage on Coomer Path were found without adequate access to food or water.
One dog was found dead due to heat exposure, and another was found underweight and chained.
“I want to make it very clear that if you abuse an animal, you will be held accountable, investigated, and arrested for this crime,” APD Carey Chaudoir said.
ALSO | A/C restored in Austin Animal Services kennels after urgent plea for adopters, fosters
Austin Animal Services said animals may also go to foster homes or rescue partners once they’re released from custody. (CBS Austin/Jalen Adams)
APD said the two living dogs are expected to make a full recovery.
“Since then, they’ve been released from custody and they were adopted,” Dangler said. “So, both of them are in adoptive homes now.”
Austin Animal Services said animals may also go to foster homes or rescue partners once they’re released from custody.