Man charged with animal cruelty for abandoning dogs in Brighton apartment

On August 21, police responded to a report of animal abuse in the 700 block of Mather Street, Brighton. Property management had alerted authorities due to a foul odor emanating from an apartment unit. Upon entering, officers discovered a female dog deceased, having partially delivered dead puppies, while a male dog was found alive but in need of medical attention. Both dogs had been left without food or water for an extended period. The suspect, 26-year-old Jose Castruita Reyes, is accused of abandoning the dogs in locked kennels for over two weeks. This neglect led to the tragic death of the female dog and her puppies. When Reyes returned to the apartment on the day of the police response, he was arrested on the spot by the officers present. Reyes faces serious charges, including one count of aggravated cruelty to animals and one count of cruelty to animals. The case highlights the severe consequences of animal neglect and the importance of reporting suspected mistreatment to authorities. The Brighton Police Department encourages residents to report any instances of animal abuse. This case serves as a reminder of the responsibility pet owners have to provide proper care and the legal repercussions that can arise from neglecting that duty.