Naples Man Arrested After Three Cats Found Dead in Abandoned Apartment, Deputies Say

 

Naples Man Arrested After Three Cats Found Dead in Abandoned Apartment, Deputies Say

A Naples man is facing multiple felony charges after Collier County deputies found three dead cats inside an abandoned apartment he had moved out of months earlier.

According to the Collier County Sheriff’s Office, David Ross, 27, left his residence on Dover Place several months ago and locked his three cats inside without air conditioning, electricity, or sufficient food and water. Investigators say the animals had no means of escape and were left to suffer until they died.

The investigation began when a concerned neighbor contacted the property manager, reporting that Ross had not been seen for nearly three months and that flies were gathering on the home’s windows. The property manager then alerted law enforcement. Detectives received permission from Ross’ mother to enter the unit and conduct a welfare check.

Once inside, deputies discovered a severely unsanitary scene—trash strewn throughout the apartment, cat feces coating the floors, insects crawling across the walls, and a strong, putrid odor permeating the home, according to CCSO.

A search revealed the bodies of three cats in advanced stages of decomposition. Ross was not at the residence and did not cooperate with authorities when contacted, investigators said.

The deceased animals were transported to the University of Florida, where veterinarians performed necropsies. The findings, combined with the conditions inside the apartment, established probable cause for Ross’ arrest.

Ross was taken into custody Thursday and is now facing three counts of aggravated animal cruelty.

“This kind of neglect is disturbing and unacceptable,” Sheriff Kevin Rambosk said in a statement. “Animal cruelty has no place in Collier County. We remain committed to seeking justice for animals subjected to abuse and neglect and holding offenders accountable.”