Person of Interest Identified in Animal Poisoning Deaths Near Sebastopol
Area of Kennedy Road in Santa Rosa | Google Maps
SANTA ROSA – According to a community bulletin released on February 23rd by the Sonoma County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO) the Rural Crime Task Force is investigating a person of interest in connection with animal poisonings first reported on February 12th.
A woman had reported that two of her horses and a dog had been poisoned. Only one of the horses survived. Veterinarians treating the animals believed that the animals died from oleander toxicity.
It is believed that the animals were fed some sort of homemade cookies that were tainted with the plant, which is highly poisonous to animals.
The concoctions were placed in an area where the animals would easily feed on them. The location is also within a contained private property area along Kennedy Road outside of Sebastopol.
The location and placement of the toxic treats leads authorities to believe the poisoning was intentional.
This is a criminal investigation under the jurisdiction of the SCSO, though Sonoma County Animal Control has also been advised of the incident.
This is an active and on-going case. While it appears to be an isolated event, there may be other recent livestock deaths.
However, this is the only case of intentional poisoning the Task Force has confirmed thus far. The department is investigating and following up on strong leads that have identified a person of interest.
Details will only be released as appropriate in order to not interfere with the ongoing investigation.
If you believe that you have an animal that was killed intentionally by oleander poisoning, please contact the SCSO. Anyone with information pertaining to this case should call the Investigations Tip Line at 707-565-2185. You may also submit information on the SCSO website and remain anonymous.
