Austin Police Spokeswoman Arrested On Animal Cruelty Charges

AUSTIN, TX — The spokesperson for the Austin Police Department was arrested on charges of animal cruelty, officials said on Monday.

Anna Sabana, 43, is accused of "...knowingly and recklessly causing bodily injury, in a cruel manner" to a dog named Flash, KXAN and other media outlets reported. Referencing the indictment, the news station reported Sabana failed to provide adequate medical care for the animal, categorizing her behavior as not being "...generally accepted or otherwise lawful form of conduct."

Eduardo Gonzales, 45, also was arrested as part of the investigation, according to reports. The relationship between the two is unclear.

An attorney for the two told KXAN Gonzales had treated Flash with a home remedy for a skin wound rather than seeking proper veterinary care. Sabana and Gonzales turned themselves in on Monday with bond set at $5,000 each, the attorney added.

The Austin Police Department declined comment, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation: "The Austin Police Department respects the grand Jury’s decision and appreciates their review of this case. Due to the pending criminal proceedings, the Department is precluded from further comment."

Sabana has been a full-time employee with the City of Austin since June 6, 1999, police said. Her current employment status is pending due to an administrative review, officials added.

>>> Read the full story at KXAN