I received a call from Sgt. Tony this AM. He wanted me to get this message out and to let all know police are continuing to gather evidence in this case and it is still under open investigation. It is below:
Sgt. Tony
Landato #10016
Mesa Police Department
Media Relations
Hours: Mon-Thur, 0800-1800 Hours
480-644-3994 (desk)
PD-info@mesaaz.gov
Anthony.landato@mesaaz.gov
http://www.mesapd.blogspot.com/
Animal Cruelty Case
On 09-03-2012 suspect Scott Graham was arrested for the following: One count of Theft, which is a Class 1 Misdemeanor; One count of Mistreatment to Animals, which is a Class 6 Felony; Two counts of Cruelty to Animals, which is a Class 1 Misdemeanor.
This arrest was reference the investigation of a missing cat from the area of
Extension / Natal in Mesa. In addition, several other cats were believed to be missing from the area, although no other reports were made by victims. Subsequent to the report, three cats were found deceased not far from the original theft location. One of those cats was believed to possibly be the cat stolen from our victim's residence.
At the time of Scott Graham's arrest, testimony and evidence available to arresting officers supported the listed charges. However, subsequent investigation by detectives has developed information which brings some the initial facts into question. Based upon this development, the decision was made to continue with only the Theft charge. At this time, investigative efforts have been exhausted. Any additional or future charges are unlikely until additional evidence is developed or received that would allow the investigation to continue.