The Brighton Police Department has filed a felony animal cruelty case with the 17th Judicial District Attorney’s Office. The following charges were accepted against 26-year-old Jose Castruita Reyes: 

COUNT 1: AGGRAVATED CRUELTY TO ANIMALS, C.R.S. 18-9-202(1.5)(b)(I) (F4){28023}
COUNT 2: CRUELTY TO ANIMALS, C.R.S. 18-9-202(1)(a) (M1){2801G} 

On Aug. 21 officers were called to a report of animal abuse in an apartment in the 700 block of Mather Street. Property management reported that there was a foul odor coming from the unit. Officers learned upon arrival that property management had forced the door open and found at least one deceased animal. Brighton Police Community Service Officers and Patrol Officers responded and learned that Castruita Reyes had left the animals in the apartment alone for over two weeks.

Further investigation revealed that two dogs had been left in kennels that were wired shut. One male dog was transported to the Riverdale Animal Shelter for further care and evaluation. The other dog was found deceased, having partially delivered a litter of puppies who were also deceased. Both dogs were left with no access to food or water.

The suspect was immediately arrested when he arrived on scene. “Our city is no place for animal cruelty of any kind,” said Brighton Police Chief Matt Domenico. “I am extremely proud of our Animal Welfare division for their continuous dedication to seeking justice for those who do not have a voice.” To report mistreatment of animals to the Brighton Police Department, please call 303-288-1535.

Under Colorado laws, the arrest and filing of a criminal charge is merely a formal accusation that an individual committed a crime. A defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.