By-Line: Joseph Bober, FCSO
Following an investigation by the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office Community Policing Division, Agriculture/Ranch Unit, and General Assignment Unit, a Palm Coast man was located and arrested in Mississippi for animal cruelty.
On March 7, deputies responded to a domestic disturbance that began after the victim discovered their cat had passed away from severe physical injuries. During the initial investigation, deputies arrested Atticus Robert, 34, of Palm Coast, for False Imprisonment after determining that he had blocked the victim’s attempts to leave multiple times during an argument regarding the cat’s death. He was transported to the Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility, where he was later released on a $5,000 bond.
While investigating the domestic disturbance incident, deputies obtained further information about the cat’s death. Notably, deputies observed scratches on Robert’s face and determined that he had been alone with the cat for approximately an hour before the cat’s death.
The FCSO Agriculture/Ranch Unit continued the investigation into the cat’s death. A necropsy (similar to an autopsy) determined that the cat had died from collapsed lungs as a result of blunt force trauma.
On April 3, based on evidence obtained during the investigation, detectives obtained a warrant for Robert’s arrest for Aggravated Animal Cruelty. At the time, Robert was believed to be living out of his vehicle, and his whereabouts were unknown.
On April 8, the Hernando Police Department in Mississippi notified the FCSO that officers had located and arrested Robert on his Flagler County warrant. He was transported to the DeSoto County Adult Detention Facility in Hernando, Mississippi, where he will be held until extradition to Flagler County.
Atticus Robert (DeSoto County Adult Detention Facility mugshot)
“If you seriously hurt or kill an innocent animal that cannot defend itself, we will find you and put you in the Green Roof Inn where you belong,” said Sheriff Rick Staly. “I commend our deputies and detectives for thoroughly investigating this case and thank the Hernando Police Department for locating and helping us bring this guy to justice.”
Anyone who suspects that an animal is being abused or neglected should contact their local animal control or law enforcement to report it. Witnesses to active animal cruelty should immediately call 911.
