Chaos at San Bernardino Animal Shelter: A break-in sets dozens of dogs loose.

Security Guard’s Quick Action Prevents Greater Disaster

A person of interest has been detained following a dramatic break-in at the San Bernardino City Animal Shelter early Wednesday morning, where approximately 25 dogs were released from their kennels.

Security footage captured a woman using bolt cutters to break through the front gate around 3:30 a.m. She proceeded to cut open at least ten dog kennels, unleashing the animals into the shelter grounds.

Kristine Watson, the shelter’s director, described the scene: “She cut the lock on our front gate, then the kennels, letting the dogs loose. Fortunately, our on-duty security guard noticed the dogs running around and called the police within minutes.”

Marc Cota-Robles @abc7marccr
Marc Cota-Robles
@abc7marccr
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Dogs Recovered, But One Still Missing

Authorities arrived swiftly and found a woman nearby with several of the dogs. Four were later discovered inside a dumpster. While most of the dogs have since been recovered, one—Louise, a spayed and microchipped Chihuahua—remains missing.

“One of the dogs has already been adopted, and the rest are still available for adoption,” Watson added, encouraging the community to step forward and provide homes.

Marc Cota-Robles @abc7marccr
Marc Cota-Robles
@abc7marccr
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Investigation Ongoing as Questions Remain

The San Bernardino Police Department has not yet confirmed if the woman found with the dogs is the same person responsible for the break-in. It is possible she was detained due to an outstanding warrant.

“We are still gathering evidence, reviewing surveillance footage, and interviewing witnesses to ensure the right person is held accountable,” said Lt. Jennifer Kohrell of the San Bernardino Police Department.

Despite the alarming break-in, shelter officials note a silver lining. “More people are coming in to adopt, foster, or volunteer,” Watson shared. “That’s the best possible outcome from this situation.”

The investigation remains ongoing.

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