A South Florida man faces animal cruelty charges after police said he was caught on camera pouring a combination of bleach and alcohol into a koi pond at the Aventura Mall killing more than 20 fish.
Yesterday, someone put foreign substances into our Koi Pond and was arrested by Aventura Police. Our team worked immediately to remove most of the fish from the pond and has been working continuously with Miami Dade Animal Services. Fortunately, many of the fish were saved, and the teams continue to monitor their health and maintain the pond.
Statement from the Aventura Mall
According to CbsNews, Canin Lathaniel Sanders, 30, was arrested nd charged with 20 counts of animal cruelty and one count each of criminal mischief and resisting an officer without violence.
Surveillance video and eyewitnesses saw Sanders pouring the toxic mixture into the pond which holds about 50 fish – each one estimated to be worth more than $1,000 each. As Sanders poured the liquid into the pond, several fish turned sideways and struggled to breathe. As they reached the surface, the accused reached over to pet the fish.
Mall officials have been cleaning and caring for the surviving fish. The estimated damage is expected to exceed $25,000.
Sanders was arrested in Miami Gardens and as of Friday was being held on $11,000 bond.
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