Man Fatally Shot Dog At Neighbor's Home, Hillsborough Sheriff Says

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, FL — A man was arrested in Hillsborough County after entering a neighbor’s home on Friday and fatally shooting a dog that had bitten a young child, authorities said.

Reyes Rodriguez, 32, was charged with aggravated cruelty to animals, discharge of a firearm in public or on residential property, and armed burglary of a dwelling, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office said.

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The dog had already been separated from the child, who wasn’t injured, and had retreated inside its home when Rodriguez armed himself with a rifle, deputies said.

He entered the neighboring residence and shot the dog, killing it.

Rodriguez was arrested after the incident.

"This incident could have been handled through lawful and appropriate channels," Sheriff Chad Chronister said. "Instead, this individual chose to arm himself, unlawfully enter another person's home, and kill their pet. No one has the right to take the law into their own hands, and we will hold those who commit criminal acts accountable.”

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