Photo credit: www.foxnews.com
Vigil for Slain Cats Turns Chaotic in Santa Ana
A gathering meant to remember the cats purportedly killed by an alleged serial cat killer in Santa Ana, California, escalated into violence when attendees mistakenly targeted the wrong residence while searching for the suspect.
This incident occurred one week after local law enforcement arrested 45-year-old Alejandro Oliveros Acosta. Authorities believe he murdered numerous cats in his neighborhood. Residents reported that Acosta allegedly administered a lethal injection to one cat, while another person found their pet hanging from a tree.
Following his arrest, Acosta reportedly confessed to the charges against him and later posted bail, resulting in his release from custody.
Community Backlash and Mistaken Identity
During the vigil, a crowd gathered outside a nearby home, mistakenly believing it belonged to Acosta’s brother. The gathering quickly turned hostile as individuals demanded the suspect’s presence, leading to vandalism and violence, including the use of pepper spray against the homeowner.
The individual living at the targeted house, who chose to remain anonymous, clarified to local media that he is not related to Acosta, although he is connected to Acosta’s brother-in-law. He claimed he had no recent contact with Acosta since the arrest.
Authorities took over an hour to respond to the escalating situation, during which time the angry group continued their protests, accusing the innocent residents of complicity in Acosta’s actions. Despite this unrest, local police indicated that the gathering was an unlawful assembly.
Police Statement and Community Concerns
In a statement, the Santa Ana Police Department stressed their commitment to community safety, stating: “While we support the community’s right to peacefully assemble, we will not tolerate acts of violence or vandalism.” They warned that any illegal actions would have consequences.
One resident expressed fear and frustration, emphasizing the negative impact on children in the household, including two infants, stating, “This peaceful protesting wasn’t so peaceful… They’re scaring the whole family.”
Continuing Investigation into Animal Cruelty
The Santa Ana Police Department had been receiving numerous reports of cat abductions and killings prior to Acosta’s arrest. Witnesses claimed he had been luring local cats to his property before harming them. Following a thorough investigation, detectives took him into custody on felony animal cruelty charges.
Acosta’s release on bail has sparked further outrage among residents, many of whom fear for the safety of their pets. Local police reiterated that bail is constitutionally protected and asserted that local procedures dictate the bail amounts for various offenses.
As the investigation continues, community members are actively reporting missing cats and seeking assurance that action will be taken against the alleged perpetrator.
Source
www.foxnews.com