Dog's Death Leads to Animal Cruelty Charge Against Alexandria Man

Image: Zili died several days after being dropped off at the Fairfax County Animal Shelter, say police (FCPD).

FAIRFAX COUNTY, VA -- An Alexandria man has been charged with misdemeaner animal cruelty following the death of a dog that he had taken to the Fairfax County Animal Shelter.

After an investigation by Animal Control officers, Fairfax County police officers arrested Eryk Misrain Cruz, 19, on Thursday and took him to the county jail, according to the police.

On May 27, an unidentified man dropped off a mixed-breed pit bull terrier at the animal shelter. The dog, a female named Zili, was about 11 months old and "extremely emaciated," the police said. She was taken to an emergency veterinarian and received medical treatment.

On June 1, Zili passed away due to her poor health. "A necropsy was completed by the state animal health laboratory and determined that she died from emaciation, dehydration and bacterial necrotizing enterocolitis," the police said.

If you are no longer able to care for your pet, you can surrender it to the Fairfax County Animal Shelter. Click here for more information or visit the animal shelter's website.