CLEARWATER, FLA. — A couple was arrested in Clearwater for animal cruelty on Saturday after leaving a dog in a vehicle during a concert, authorities said.
The Clearwater Police Department (CPD) arrested Leticia and Umberto Locasto, both 57.
According to a Pinellas County arrest affidavit, the couple arrived at a concert venue at about 5 p.m. leaving a small mixed-breed dog in a 2011 Rav 4 vehicle with the windows rolled up.
People passing the vehicle notified CPD officers about the dog, which appeared to be “in distress and barking,” the report stated.
Upon looking at the dog, it appeared to be covered in fecal matter and had matted fur, the report stated.
While there was a water bowl in the vehicle, it only had about an inch of water left, CPD officials said.
The heat index was about 72 degrees outside, but when officers made entry into the vehicle, it felt about “10-20 degrees warmer,” the report stated.
The dog was taken to a local animal hospital for treatment at about 8 p.m.
The couple returned about 9:30 p.m. They claimed to have checked on the dog beforehand, but officers who were on scene said that it never occurred.
The suspects were then arrested and charged with animal cruelty and booked into the Pinellas County Jail on a $500 bond.
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