Full Notification

On Saturday, June 20th, 2026, at approximately 4:15 p.m., officers from the Rialto Police Department arrested Tracy Bolton in connection with a disturbing animal cruelty investigation that resulted in the death of a long haired Chihuahua dog named Prada.

After killing the dog, Bolton concealed evidence of the crime by disposing of Prada's body in a dumpster near the scene. Investigators subsequently recovered the animal's remains and developed evidence that led to Bolton's arrest.

Investigators determined that Bolton intentionally killed Prada, his estranged wife's dog, by hanging the animal from a door and repeatedly striking it with a hammer. As a result of the injuries inflicted during the attack, Prada died. Following an extensive investigation, officers arrested Bolton and booked him into the West Valley Detention Center. Bolton, who is a convicted felon, is currently being held in custody on $1,000,000 bail. 

The San Bernardino County District Attorney's Office has formally filed charges against Bolton for violations of California Penal Code Section 597(a) (Animal Cruelty) and Penal Code Section 12022(b)(1) (Personal Use of a Deadly or Dangerous Weapon).

The Rialto Police Department investigates thousands of criminal incidents each year. Based on the facts uncovered during this investigation, this case stands among the most disturbing acts of cruelty our investigators have encountered. The deliberate torture and killing of a defenseless animal is reprehensible, and we are committed to ensuring those responsible are held fully accountable.

The abuse and needless killing of defenseless animals is a crime that will not be tolerated in our community. The Rialto Police Department remains committed to aggressively investigating incidents of animal abuse and pursuing every available avenue to hold offenders accountable. 

Individuals who intentionally harm animals should understand that these crimes will be thoroughly investigated and presented for prosecution.

Chief Mark P. Kling stated, “The facts of this case are deeply disturbing. Animals are often among the most vulnerable members of our community, and acts of cruelty against them will be met with a vigorous law enforcement response. We are grateful for the work of our investigators and the San Bernardino County District Attorney's Office in bringing this case forward.”

Anyone with additional information regarding this case is encouraged to contact the Rialto Police Department. Anonymous tips may be submitted through WeTip at (800) 782-7463.

Captain Lamont Quarker             
Public Information Officer
[email protected] 
(909) 820-2634


MARK P. KLING, Chief of Police
Rialto Police Department