SANTA ANA, Calif. — Alejandro Oliveros Acosta, 46, of Santa Ana, was charged with felony animal cruelty after authorities say he lured and killed multiple cats over several months, officials announced Tuesday.
Charges and Arrest Details
Oliveros faces charges including felony animal cruelty, theft of a companion animal—a Bengal lynx named Clubber—and possession of methamphetamine. He was arrested on April 24 following investigations by Santa Ana and Westminster police and released on $40,000 bail. The Orange County District Attorney’s Office said it plans to seek a $100,000 bail, citing public safety concerns.
Allegations and Evidence
Police reports detail a disturbing pattern: from November through April, Oliveros allegedly used canned food to lure cats, then killed them by beating or stomping. Witnesses described a white Toyota Tacoma pickup involved in the crimes.
Security footage captured an April 5 incident where a cat was fatally stomped. Additional reports include a man slamming a cat on April 3 and the theft of the Bengal lynx on March 21 after it was lured with food. The lynx was later returned to its owner.
Seven reports of dead or injured cats with severe trauma—including broken backs and bloody faces—were filed with Santa Ana Animal Control during this period.
Community Reaction
The case sparked public outrage, culminating in a vigil on April 27 where some attendees engaged in vandalism and violence. Santa Ana Police condemned these actions while supporting peaceful protests.
Animal advocates have expressed frustration over Oliveros’ initial release, prompting the district attorney to push for a higher bail.
Potential Penalties
If convicted on all charges, Oliveros faces over five years in prison.
Source Attribution
Information sourced from:
- Orange County District Attorney’s Office
- Santa Ana Police Department