A Missoula man is facing charges of animal cruelty and drug possession after allegedly abandoning seven geckos and a kitten outside his residence.
In a shocking incident that unfolded on November 27, 2023, a Missoula man, Dennis Cregan, is now facing charges of cruelty to animals and felony possession of dangerous drugs. Cregan’s girlfriend reported that he had dumped her seven geckos and a kitten outside their residence on Arcadia Drive. This act of alleged cruelty has sparked outrage in the community and brought attention to the importance of responsible pet ownership. As authorities investigate the case, questions arise about the welfare of these abandoned animals and the consequences Cregan may face.
Officers Respond to Distressing Scene
Upon receiving the report, a Missoula Police Department Officer was dispatched to the residence on Arcadia Drive. The officer contacted the girlfriend, who had left Cregan and received a disturbing text message with a photo showing the animals left outside. Concerned for their well-being, she enlisted the help of a friend to retrieve the abandoned pets.
Officers arrived at the scene to find a disarrayed front lawn, with children’s toys, boxes, and a tipped-over glass terrarium. The friend explained her unsuccessful search for the animals, prompting the officers to confront Cregan.
A Race Against Time to Save the Animals
Cregan admitted to leaving the geckos and kitten outside in the freezing cold. Realizing the urgency, officers began searching for the abandoned pets. With temperatures hovering around 30 degrees, every minute was crucial.
Despite the challenging circumstances, officers managed to locate three geckos hiding under discarded items in the yard. These geckos, although lethargic, were still alive. Another gecko was found curled up under a leaf, severely affected by the cold. The officers swiftly collected the animals and placed them in a small aquarium in the friend’s vehicle, where they could warm up.
Under a small table on the front porch, officers discovered a tan kitten matching the description of the abandoned pet. The kitten was promptly retrieved and reunited with the rescued geckos. Unfortunately, three geckos remained unaccounted for, leaving a lingering concern for their well-being.
Cregan’s Admission and Further Charges
During his arrest, Cregan acknowledged the cold-blooded nature of geckos and their need for a suitable ambient temperature. He confessed to intentionally abandoning the animals, expressing no intention of caring for them. Additionally, authorities discovered a container of Adderall pills, a schedule II stimulant drug, during the inventory of Cregan’s belongings.
Cregan now faces charges of eight counts of cruelty to animals, highlighting the severity of his alleged actions, along with felony criminal possession of dangerous drugs.
Conclusion: The case of Dennis Cregan and the abandoned animals on Arcadia Drive has sparked outrage and raised important questions about responsible pet ownership. This incident serves as a reminder of the duty we have to care for our pets and the potential legal consequences for those who neglect or harm animals. As the investigation continues, the rescued geckos and kitten are receiving the care they desperately need. The outcome of this case will not only determine Cregan’s fate but also shed light on the importance of animal welfare and the need for stricter laws to protect innocent creatures.
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