WAILUA – A Kapaa man was arrested for animal cruelty Tuesday after officers discovered malnourished and dead dogs at his home. Kauai Humane Society officers responded to a complaint of animal mistreatment at the home of Russell Soares, 35, on
WAILUA – A Kapaa man was arrested for animal cruelty Tuesday after officers discovered malnourished and dead dogs at his home.
Kauai Humane Society officers responded to a complaint of animal mistreatment at the home of Russell Soares, 35, on Waipouli Road in Kapaa.
The officers discovered five adult dogs and three puppies in various cages on the property, according to press release by the police department. One of the dogs was dead and at least one other appeared to be emaciated. The Kauai Police Department was called to assist.
Soares claimed ownership of the dogs and was arrested and transported to the police cellblock for booking on two misdemeanor charges of second-degree cruelty to animals. Each charge is punishable up to one year in jail and $2,000 in fines, according to the county prosecutor’s office. Soares has since been released on his own recognizance pending a January court date.
The dogs were transported to KHS for treatment and a necropsy was conducted on the deceased dog.
According to Penny Cistaro, executive director of KHS, the necropsy revealed that the dog died of starvation.
Cistaro said their investigation into the treatment and condition of the animals is continuing to determine if additional charges are warranted.
