HOLLISTER, CALIFORNIA – December 26, 2024- Hollister Police Animal Care and Services received a report from the Watsonville Police Department. According to the report, a viral video had been circulating throughout Facebook showing a local resident hitting her dog. Animal Control conducted an investigation into the allegations.
On December 19, 2024, Hollister Police Animal Care and Services contacted multiple witnesses stating they knew the woman depicted in the video. In addition, the dog was seized pursuant to California Penal Code 597.1 Permitting Animals to Go Without Care. Animal Control Officers immediately transported the animal to a local veterarian for treatment.
On December 23, 2024, investigating Animal Control Officers authored an arrest warrant for Sophia Enfantino (19 years old) who was later arrested for felony animal cruelty.
Hollister Police Animal Care and Services would like to remind the public that it is unlawful for any person having charge or custody of any animal, either as owner or otherwise, to subject any animal to needless suffering, inflict unnecessary cruelty upon an animal, or in any manner abuse an animal, or deprives an animal of necessary sustenance, drink, or shelter as it violates California PC 597. A violation of this subdivision is punishable as a felony by imprisonment, or by a fine of not more than twenty thousand dollars, or by both that fine and imprisonment.
Hollister Police Animal Care and Services would like to thank the Watsonville Police Department for their partnership and providing vital information that led to the apprehension of the animal owner.
Anyone with information regarding this investigation is requested to contact Animal Control Officer Harvey at 831-636-4320.
Prepared by: Alyssa Carrillo, AC Supervisor
Approved by: Carlos Reynoso, Chief of Police
