A man from Santa Ana is facing serious charges for allegedly harming and killing numerous cats. Alejandro Oliveros Acosta, 46, was supposed to appear in court on Wednesday but did not show up. Now, authorities have issued a warrant for his arrest.
Acosta was charged with two felony counts of animal cruelty, one felony count of grand theft for stealing a companion animal, and one misdemeanor count related to drug possession. He had a bail set at $40,000, which has now been forfeited. The district attorney’s office is seeking to raise his bail to $100,000, citing that Acosta poses a significant danger to the community.
Before his absence, Acosta was facing a potential sentence of over five years if convicted on all charges. His case has drawn considerable attention, with over 25 animal rights activists expected to attend the hearing. The district attorney’s office has stated that they will push to hold him without bail when he is apprehended.
Authorities believe Acosta is responsible for the deaths of around 20 cats in the neighborhood. Reports indicate that he admitted to killing several cats and even hanging some in a tree. During a search of his home, police found carcasses and other evidence related to the alleged animal cruelty.
Witnesses have identified Acosta as the person who lured cats to his property. This included an incident on April 3, where he was allegedly seen grabbing a cat and slamming it. Surveillance footage also captured him stomping on another cat just days later.
The situation escalated to a community protest in April, where around 100 people gathered near Acosta’s home. The protest was intended to be peaceful but turned chaotic, with some participants vandalizing property.
As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone with information to contact the Santa Ana or Westminster police departments. Acosta’s actions have sparked outrage, highlighting the ongoing issue of animal cruelty in communities.