Man arrested after ‘disturbing’ Facebook post on his dog dying

Author: Camila Pereira Writer: Rachel Murphy
Published: Updated:
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Anthony Knight arrested CREDIT Lee County Sheriff’s Office

WARNING: some viewers may find this story and the video accompanying it disturbing.

The Lee County Sheriff’s Office received a message from a concerned citizen about a possible deceased dog via Facebook, and deputies ended up finding an upsetting scene.

The Facebook post was reviewed, and Lee County Deputies began investigating a residence on Meadow Road in Lehigh Acres.

Contact was made with 31-year-old Anthony Knight, also known on Facebook as Antonio Rodriguez. When confronted with the information, Knight confirmed he had posted the messages and showed detectives where he buried his deceased dog, Kalea.

In the video, Knight discovers Kalea, who was left in a cage, within the garage that had no ventilation or water. She died with her face in an empty water bowl.

After a search warrant was granted, Kalea’s remains were collected and sent for a necropsy.

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Lee County Deputies handling remains CREDIT Lee County Sheriff’s Office

“Your pet should be your family, and any type of neglect or abuse, it should not happen,” said Brian Wierima, from the Gulf Coast Humane Society.

He said he is glad people who were worried about the dog called the sheriff’s office.

GCHS said it’s important to do your research before adopting or getting a dog.

Also, they think it’s important to know the responsibilities that come with adding a new furry member to the family, especially in this heat where you should be making sure they are hydrated and cool.

Knight was arrested and is being held without bond. He faces charges of felony animal cruelty.

Knight has prior convictions for marijuana possession as well as possession of cocaine, fleeing to elude and possession of a weapon by a convicted felon. He was also on probation at the time of the incident.

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