Animal cruelty in Coachella

In Aguanga, California, over 100 animals were seized from a property due to suspected animal cruelty, following a tip from a sheriff’s deputy during the Nixon Fire. The Riverside County Department of Animal Services (RCDAS) reported poor conditions for the animals and plans to pursue felony charges against the property owner for animal cruelty. Separately, Oscar Jesus Romero Moreno was arrested in Coachella for allegedly abusing his six-month-old terrier, Orio, resulting in a fractured leg, while also being suspected of domestic violence against a woman in the home. Witnesses reported that Moreno violently handled the dog, prompting an investigation by animal services and law enforcement. Orio is now recovering and is available for adoption, while Moreno faces multiple charges including felony animal cruelty. RCDAS and the Sheriff's Department are committed to addressing these severe instances of animal abuse.