Man arrested, suspected of throwing injured cat into dumpster in Laguna Hills

Authorities planned to charge a man who is accused of throwing his roommate’s injured cat into a dumpster in Laguna Hills with animal cruelty.

The incident occurred around 7:20 p.m. Monday near the 25000 block of Cabot Road, according to Mission Viejo Animal Services. Surveillance video shows a suspect exiting a vehicle, retrieving a white garbage bag and discarding it into the dumpster.

Animal services officials said they were notified Tuesday about an injured feline found in a dumpster just minutes before it was scheduled for collection. Officials put out a call on social media, asking if the public could identify the man, who was caught on surveillance footage throwing the cat away.

The owner reached out to officials and identified the man as her roommate. The man, who has not been identified by officials, was arrested Wednesday afternoon and will face a felony animal cruelty charge.

The cat, named Willow by Animal Services, was suffering from extensive injuries and was taken to a local animal hospital, where she is receiving treatment and is expected to recover, officials said.

“Despite this heartbreaking betrayal, Willow continues to show immense affection to the veterinary staff caring for her, purring and seeking comfort from those providing her with kindness and affection,” Mission Viejo Animal Services said in a statement.

Anyone with information about the case was urged to contact Mission Viejo Animal Services at 949-470-3045. Donations to support Willow’s recovery and other animals in need can be made to the Dedicated Animal Welfare Group at dawg.org