Arrest Made in Disturbing Animal Cruelty Case in Fort Pierce

Incident Details

Authorities in Fort Pierce, Florida, have arrested 42-year-old Salomon Cruz-Perez on charges of aggravated animal cruelty after the remains of two dogs were discovered in his backyard.

Discovery of the Deceased Dogs

On Sunday evening, officers from the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office, working in conjunction with St. Lucie County Animal Safety, responded to a call at 2111 Dade Road. Upon arrival, they found two adult dogs, one male and one female, hanging lifelessly from a tree in the backyard of Cruz-Perez’s residence.

Prior Requests and Investigation

Prior to this incident, Cruz-Perez had approached Animal Control with a request for euthanasia of the dogs. Investigators later executed a search warrant at the property, which unveiled that the dogs had been suspended from the tree using a variety of materials including coaxial cable, paracord, tie-down straps, and chains.

Charges and Current Status

Cruz-Perez is facing two counts of aggravated animal cruelty resulting in death and is currently being held in custody at the St. Lucie County Jail. His bond has been set at $60,000.

Next Steps in the Investigation

The deceased dogs have been sent to Orlando for a necropsy to ascertain the cause and manner of their deaths. Sheriff Richard Del Toro confirmed that the investigation is ongoing.

Community Response

Local animal advocacy groups are urging for severe penalties. Susan Parry from United for Animals stated, “Ask our state attorney’s office to absolutely prosecute to the maximum law,” highlighting the community’s concern over animal welfare.