UPDATE: A turtle has tragically died following an animal cruelty incident at the Valencia Town Center on July 12, 2023. The turtle sustained severe injuries after being violently slammed to the ground by a man, identified as a 34-year-old transient from Van Nuys, at approximately 2:30 p.m. on Wednesday.
Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station officials confirmed the incident occurred in a pond located at The Patios, an outdoor shopping area. Eyewitness reports prompted deputies to respond swiftly, where they found the suspect disturbing the turtles. He had been previously observed taking turtles from the pond, raising serious concerns about animal welfare.
Security footage captured the moment the man aggressively grabbed one of the turtles and threw it down. The injured turtle was transported to an emergency veterinary hospital for evaluation and treatment, but despite efforts, it did not survive its injuries and died while under the care of the Los Angeles County Animal Care & Control.
Deputy Mariela Picard, a spokesperson for the SCV Sheriff’s Station, stated in an email to The Signal, “The incident is still under active investigation, and a necropsy will be conducted to determine the exact cause of death.” This vital step is part of ongoing efforts to address the troubling act of animal cruelty.
The suspect displayed erratic behavior during the incident and resisted arrest, which led law enforcement to employ use of force to subdue him. In a concerning twist, Deputy Picard confirmed that this individual had previously been reported missing in a 2018 alert issued by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, which noted his struggles with mental health issues.
Animal Care & Control responded promptly to the scene to ensure all protocols were followed for the treatment of the injured turtle. The ongoing investigation highlights the community’s commitment to animal welfare and the urgent need to address such disturbing behaviors.
Authorities are urging anyone with additional information about this case to come forward. As the investigation continues, officials emphasize the importance of vigilance in protecting vulnerable wildlife.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as it unfolds. Your attention to animal welfare can make a difference.
