Animal Trainer Arrested Following Deaths of Multiple Dogs

News Summary

Authorities in Irvine have arrested an animal trainer and his girlfriend after at least 10 dogs died while in their care. Following an investigation triggered by a pet owner’s report, detectives found multiple canine remains connected to the trainer’s questionable practices. Experts are examining the remains to determine the causes of death. The case raises significant concerns about the treatment of animals in training facilities and underlines the need for responsible care. Authorities are urging pet owners with information to come forward as the investigation continues.

Irvine – Authorities arrested an animal trainer and his girlfriend on Thursday following the deaths of at least 10 dogs while in their care. Kwong (Tony) Chun Sit, 53, of Irvine, and Tingfeng Liu, 23, of Vista, face charges of animal cruelty and destruction of evidence.

The investigation began when a pet owner reported that their dog had died in its sleep while under the care of Sit. Disturbingly, the owner received a message from the trainer stating that the dog had already been cremated. This incident prompted the Irvine Police Department’s Animal Services Unit to launch an investigation on Wednesday.

As the investigation unfolded, authorities discovered that at least 10 dogs had died while in the trainer’s care. Multiple dog remains were recovered from various crematoriums linked to Sit. Investigative findings revealed that nine of these dogs died on or around the same day, which raised significant concerns about the circumstances surrounding their deaths.

Detectives have established a connection between the suspicious behavior displayed by Sit and Liu, particularly regarding their attempts to quickly cremate the deceased dogs. This activity led to their eventual arrest.

Experts in animal health are now working closely with the police to conduct necropsies on the recovered canine remains. These examinations aim to determine the causes of death, allowing investigators to ascertain whether the dogs’ deaths were accidental or the result of foul play. The Irvine Police Department has made it clear that, regardless of the findings, the trainer may still be held responsible for the welfare of the animals under his care.

Aside from the current investigation, pet owners who suspect their dogs may have died while they were in Sit’s care are encouraged to come forward. Detectives are eager to hear from anyone who may have additional information regarding this troubling case.

Records indicate that Sit operated a dog training business under various names, one of which is “Happy K9 Academy.” Reports suggest that he charged customers between $1,000 to $3,400 for obedience training courses. The sheer volume of deaths and the monetary aspect of his business have drawn significant attention from law enforcement.

The investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue to gather evidence and identify potential additional victims. As the details of this case develop, the Irvine Police Department is urging anyone with information related to the circumstances of the dog deaths to reach out and assist in the investigation by contacting rsteen@cityofirvine.org.

This case comes amid heightened awareness and concern regarding the treatment of animals within training facilities. It underscores the importance of vigilance in seeking safe and humane training methods for pets, as well as the obligation of trainers to provide an environment conducive to the health and well-being of the animals in their care.

As the legal proceedings move forward, the focus will remain on uncovering the truth regarding these canine deaths, with the community looking for answers and justice for the deceased dogs.

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Additional Resources

• ABC7 News
• Los Angeles Times
• People
• CBS News
• Google Search: dog training animal cruelty
• Wikipedia: Animal cruelty