Merced police take husky into protective custody amid animal cruelty investigation
MERCED, Calif. (KFSN) -- Merced police are investigating animal cruelty allegations involving a homeless man and his pet husky, Sweetie, following numerous reports of alleged abuse and neglect dating back to last year.
Police say the department has received countless complaints about the dog's treatment. Last week, a Merced woman who asked not to be identified said she witnessed the man dragging Sweetie on hot pavement while riding a bicycle.
"She was exhausted. She's literally being dragged for like one, one and a half blocks... She was so fatigued, she could not keep up anymore, running next to his bicycle," said a concerned Merced resident.
The president of the SPCA also told Action News she personally witnessed the man pick Sweetie up by the neck and slam her to the ground. In recent weeks, photos of the dog have circulated widely online. Many of the images show Sweetie wearing a tight muzzle, with some appearing to show her attempting to remove it. Other photos show the dog's ribs visible.
A video also shows Sweetie yelping as her owner pulls her by the collar from a folding chair.
Police said officers have spent weeks collecting and submitting evidence to the Merced County District Attorney's Office. Prosecutors will review the evidence to determine whether criminal charges will be filed.
The investigation includes reports about an incident outside a Taco Bell on Friday.
"We've got several reports of different incidents. But the incident at Taco Bell is something that we're looking into," Merced Police Lt. Kalvin Haygood said.
The reported incident came one day after police took Sweetie to a veterinarian to be examined for signs of abuse or neglect. Authorities said the dog was determined to be in good enough health and was returned to her owner.
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However, after Friday's incident, Sweetie was taken into protective custody Saturday.
The move was welcomed by community members, many of whom said it was the result of public pressure and advocacy on the dog's behalf. Others criticized how long it took for law enforcement to respond.
"It does take time to build these cases. And we're hoping that someone out there has the evidence that we're looking for," Haygood said.
As the case continues to attract national attention, leaders at the Merced Rescue Mission said they are concerned the situation could create unfair perceptions about unhoused people who own pets.
"I think this incident with Sweetie is unfortunate. And I think it's a one-off. And people should look at all the homeless as people that are abusing their pets. That's not the case," said David Carr, chief operating officer of the Merced Rescue Mission.
Following an SPCA board meeting held Monday night, organizers are expected to announce when a rally will take place at the district attorney's office. Residents will also have an opportunity to comment on the issue at the next Merced City Council meeting, scheduled for 6 p.m. Monday at Merced City Hall.
