OC Woman, 21, Taped Dogs' Snouts Shut With Masking Tape, Police Say

IRVINE, CA — An Irvine woman was arrested on suspicion of three counts of felony animal cruelty after admitting to taping several dogs' snouts shut with masking tape, the Irvine Police Department reported.

Irvine Police Department Animal Services officers were dispatched to the Woodbridge area of Eastshore after receiving reports of dogs whimpering on a patio of a home, including several dogs with their snouts taped shut.

The suspect, later identified as 21-year-old Gabriela Barrera, arrived home as police officers were investigating the patio area. Barrera told officers that she used the tape to keep the three dogs from nipping and barking at other dogs.

Several husky or mixed husky and German Shepherd breeds were found and taken from the residence, including three adult females, two adults males and a male and female puppy They received a wellness check and appeared to be in good condition, police said.

Investigators also found contractor-grade masking tape, which matched the tape wrapped around the dogs' snouts. Authorities said they believe that the tape was around their muzzles for at least two hours.