Caution: The following content discusses animal abuse that may be disturbing to some individuals.
A community gathering turned chaotic when residents mistakenly targeted the wrong residence while seeking an alleged “feline serial abuser.”
Community members in Santa Ana, California, convened on Sunday (April 27) to commemorate cats reportedly killed in their neighborhood, but the memorial quickly devolved into aggression.
Police reported that 45-year-old Alejandro Oliveros Acosta, who allegedly admitted to harming the defenseless animals, had been released on bond the previous Thursday (April 24).
During the weekend memorial service, participants encircled a property they mistakenly identified as belonging to Acosta’s sibling – a critical error in judgment.
According to Fox News, the crowd insisted the occupant exit the residence, and subsequently began damaging windows.
The homeowner was also subjected to chemical irritant spray while children inside witnessed the disturbing confrontation unfold.
The affected resident clarified to Fox11 that he has no direct sibling relationship with Acosta, but rather a connection to the suspect’s wife’s brother.
Santa Ana Police Department issued a statement: “The individual charged in the recent animal cruelty investigation was apprehended last week before posting bail. We understand the intense reactions this situation has evoked and urge the public to respect the legal proceedings underway.
“Yesterday evening, during a gathering related to this matter, numerous individuals became disorderly, damaged property, and hurled objects in a residential area. While we uphold citizens’ rights to assemble peacefully, the Santa Ana Police Department will not permit violent actions, property destruction, or any threats to community safety.
“Any harm to persons or property will result in repercussions, and those participating in unlawful activities will face appropriate consequences.”
A resident affected by the neighborhood confrontation told Fox they had no knowledge of Acosta’s alleged offenses and were “stunned” by Sunday’s events.
“What began as peaceful demonstration escalated significantly. They’re terrifying children here. It’s frightening the entire household,” stated the resident, who requested anonymity.
“There are seven young people in this home. Two infants, including one with autism. They’re destroying our property… spraying irritants at us without justification. If someone committed those acts, I was completely unaware. When we learned about it, we were utterly astonished.”
According to law enforcement, allegations suggested that an individual had been attracting neighborhood cats to his residence, where they were subsequently mistreated or fatally harmed.
Acosta was apprehended on Wednesday (April 23) before facing formal felony charges related to animal mistreatment.
“Constitutional protection for reasonable bail exists under the Eighth Amendment of the United States Constitution,” the police department further noted on social media.