Kevin Benjamin was arrested for animal cruelty following concerns from neighbors about the welfare of a dog seen on a balcony at the Park Line condominium in Miami. Miami-Dade County Animal Services responded to complaints regarding the dog's condition after video footage, which circulated on social media, showed the animal lying on the balcony floor surrounded by waste.
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Witnesses noted that the dog appeared thin and had been left on the balcony for several days, prompting fears of abandonment or abuse. Catalina Balzano, a resident and member of the community, took the initiative to share the alarming images and rally local support for the dog's rescue.
Balzano, who leads a non-profit organization dedicated to animal welfare, was quick to act upon seeing the footage. "My first objective was to find out the unit number," she stated. She engaged with neighbors to gather information and immediately coordinated efforts to secure help for the dog, expressing dismay at its deteriorated state.
As community members worked to investigate the situation, police were eventually able to locate the apartment. Just after midnight on Saturday, animal services removed the dog, which Balzano described as "just skin and bone."
Shortly thereafter, police escorted Benjamin from the building in handcuffs. Balzano emphasized the importance of sharing such incidents on social media to deter animal abuse, stating, "I think it sends a message to the community, and to other abusers in the community."
Animal Services confirmed that the dog is currently receiving medical care, with non-profit organizations coordinating with them to fund rehabilitation efforts.