Man Charged In Death Of 6-Year-Old Chihuahua, Rufus: Tampa Police

TAMPA, FL — A 37-year-old man was arrested in connection with the death of a family member’s 6-year-old Chihuahua after a May 4 incident at a home on West Cordelia Street, Tampa police said in a news release.

Officers responded to the home at about 10 p.m. and found the suspect, Christopher Malone, was drunk and intentionally inflicted a fatal injury on the 4-pound dog, Rufus, after it walked past him, police said.

A subsequent investigation by Hillsborough County Animal Control confirmed that the animal’s death was caused by blunt force trauma.

“The depravity required to intentionally harm a defenseless, four-pound animal is deeply disturbing,” Chief Lee Bercaw said. “This was a senseless act of violence against a family pet that offered nothing but companionship. Our hearts go out to the family who lost their beloved dog in such a tragic way, and we are committed to ensuring this individual is held fully accountable for his actions.”

Malone was arrested on Tuesday following the findings of Hillsborough County Animal Control, according to police. He was charged with aggravated cruelty to animals and transported to Orient Road Jail.