More Details Unfold in Salinas Dog Killing

Gruesome facts go nationwide

SALINAS – The story we posted yesterday of the 12-year-old Salinas boy accused of hanging the family dog has garnered much attention, including coverage in national news.

According to the updated police report, the boys’sister left with a second family pet because she was afraid of what her brother would do.

We reported earlier that officers found a 12-pound terrier-mix hanging by its collar from a bedroom doorknob in the 300 block of Front Street.

Police said the boy was booked into Monterey County Juvenile Hall on suspicion of felony cruelty to an animal and battery. Going on record was Officer Miguel Cabrera.

“What stands out is he’s 12 year old,” he said,

In the call, Cabrera said a female was heard saying “He’s hurting the dog,” while she struggled with someone on the phone.

Upon arrival, officers knocked on the door of the apartment but received no response. Officers finally got into the apartment after they obtained a master key from the manager, Cabrera said.

Soon after, “as they’re making their way through the house, one of the officers could see a dog hanging (by its collar) on the bedroom door handle,” Cabrera said.

Upon officers’ orders, the boy exited from the same bedroom, Cabrera said. As he walked out, the boy allegedly made spontaneous comments of: “I was mad at the dog so I killed it,” and “I did it because I wanted to see it die.”

“It’s just a very, very bizarre situation,” he said. “We deal with children this age with temper tantrums, but nothing like this.”

Cabrera said the boy’s 19-year-old sister had called 911 because their mother was not home at the time. Officers learned that the sister fled with a second dog prior to their arrival, he said, fearing for its safety. She returned to the apartment shortly after officers arrived, Cabrera said.

The boy’s mother was eventually found, he said, and was told her son would be taken to Juvenile Hall. Police said the boy was not remorseful and didn’t have prior criminal behavior.

Attempts to contact neighbors were unsuccessful Monday because access to the apartment complex is restricted.

Authorities did not say whether the boy is still in custody or has been released.

Read More:

KCOY: What will Happen to the 12-Year-Old Who is Accused of Hanging a Dog?

KSEE: 12 Year Old California Boy Arrested After Killing Pet Dog