Martin County deputies rescued two kittens from a backyard in Hobe Sound on Thursday, Oct. 8, after body camera video captured them digging through rain-soaked ground. Two other kittens were found dead, and a fifth is still missing, according to Sheriff John Budensiek.
Deputies arrested Alba Chavez, 37, at a mobile home park. Court records show she faces four counts related to animal cruelty. Budensiek said she is being held on a $100,000 bond and that an immigration hold has also been placed on her.
The sheriff said several children called 911 Thursday night after three kittens disappeared from a bedroom where they had been locked for protection. The children had already known that two kittens died earlier that week. Budensiek said Chavez allegedly threw those kittens in the trash before burying them. Investigators have not determined how the two kittens died.
Budensiek said the children stayed silent because they feared what would happen to Chavez, who was in charge of the home, if authorities got involved. He said he commended them for eventually calling for help.
The Florida Department of Children and Families took custody of the children before they were turned over to their father, who lives locally. The surviving kittens are being treated for dehydration at the Humane Society of the Treasure Coast. If the missing kitten is found dead, Chavez could face an additional charge, according to the Martin County Sheriff’s Office.
Why it matters
The case is a reminder that residents who suspect animal abuse can report it to local deputies, even when the person responsible lives in the same home.
