El Paso Man Arrested for Animal Cruelty After Four Dogs Found in Deplorable Conditions

Cirilo Rodriguez, 47, has been arrested and charged with four counts of cruelty to non-livestock animals after deputies with the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office discovered four dogs in severe distress at a residence on February 19, 2025.

Deputies were dispatched to the 3800 block of Zachariah for an animal welfare check and found three dogs confined in small crates, along with a deceased dog in a cage. The crates lacked bedding and were filled with urine and feces.

The surviving dogs were severely malnourished, lethargic, and showed signs of having been forced to eat their own feces due to lack of food. Their ribs, shoulders, and hip bones were visible, and they were barely moving. No food or water was present.

With the assistance of the Animal Welfare Department, the surviving dogs were rescued and transported for care. However, due to the severity of their condition, all three surviving dogs were later euthanized by El Paso Animal Services.

Rodriguez was arrested and booked into the El Paso County Detention Facility with a total bond set at $22,500.

The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office emphasized its commitment to combating animal cruelty and prosecuting those responsible for harming animals.