Investigation underway after deceased dog discovered in crate near East Las Vegas dumpster
Las Vegas Metropolitan Police and animal control officers launched an investigation Friday morning after a dead dog was discovered inside a crate near a dumpster in an East Las Vegas neighborhood.
Discovery sparks immediate response
Officers responded around 6:20 a.m. to the 100 block of North 27th Street, near Eastern and Sunrise avenues, after receiving reports of the disturbing discovery. The crate containing the deceased animal was found positioned next to a dumpster in what marks the second troubling animal-related incident in the area this week.
Evidence suggests dog died elsewhere
Lieutenant Monique Bulmer revealed that decomposition evidence indicates the animal likely died at another location before being abandoned at the scene. Police stated it’s possible the situation could be either criminal or a case of inappropriate disposal of a deceased pet.
Neighbors expressed shock at the discovery, with one resident noting the particularly disturbing sight of blood on both the dog and accompanying sheet.
Forensic investigation in progress
Investigators processed the scene thoroughly, swabbing the kennel for DNA, fingerprints, and other forensic evidence. Officers spent the morning canvassing the neighborhood, conducting door-to-door interviews with residents in hopes of identifying the person responsible for abandoning the crate.
Recent pattern of animal cruelty cases
This incident follows closely on the heels of another animal abuse case in the North Valley, where a man was cited after security cameras captured him striking a dog. The back-to-back incidents have renewed calls from animal welfare advocates for stricter enforcement of cruelty laws.
Reba’s Law brings hope for stronger penalties
These cases underscore the importance of recently enacted legislation known as Reba’s Law, which took effect earlier this year. The law, named after an English bulldog who died after being left in a sealed plastic bin during extreme heat last summer, strengthens animal cruelty penalties and gives judges expanded authority to prevent convicted abusers from owning pets.
Under the new law, certain acts of animal cruelty that result in death can be prosecuted as category B felonies, potentially carrying sentences of one to ten years in prison. The legislation also includes provisions preventing convicted animal abusers from owning pets again, with lifetime bans for the most serious offenses.
Las Vegas leads in animal protection
Lieutenant Bulmer emphasized that Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department is among the few law enforcement agencies nationwide with a dedicated animal cruelty unit, underscoring their commitment to taking these cases seriously.
Clark County Animal Protection Services is assisting with the investigation. No arrests have been announced, and the identity of the deceased dog has not been released pending the ongoing investigation.
Community urged to report abuse
Animal advocates continue to stress the importance of community involvement in preventing animal cruelty. John Waudby, a local animal welfare advocate, expressed his dismay at the incident while emphasizing the need for vigilant reporting of suspected abuse cases.
Anyone with information about this incident or who witnesses animal cruelty is urged to contact Las Vegas Metropolitan Police or Animal Protection Services immediately.
Category: Local News
Subcategory: Crime & Safety
Date: 07/12/2025
