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Kauai police arrested a 35-year-old Kapaa man after discovering malnourished dogs, including one that was dead, at his home Tuesday.
Russell Soares was arrested and charged with two counts of second-degree animal cruelty, a misdemeanor offense. He is scheduled to appear in court in January.
The Kauai Humane Society responded Tuesday to a complaint of animal mistreatment at Soares’ home on Waipouli Road.
Humane officers discovered five dogs and three puppies in cages on the property. One dog was dead and at least one appeared emaciated.
Soares claimed he owned the dogs, police said.
Police arrested and transported him to the police cellblock where he was booked.
The dogs were taken to the Kauai Humane Society for treatment.
A necropsy on the dead animal showed it died of starvation, police said.
Kauai Humane Society Executive Director Penny Cistaro said the investigation into the treatment and condition of the animals is continuing to determine if more charges are warranted, according to a news release from police.
