Abandoned Geckos and Kitten Found in Freezing Temperatures
In a disturbing case of animal cruelty, a Missoula man was arrested after abandoning seven geckos and a kitten outside his residence in freezing temperatures. The incident came to light when the animals’ owner received a text message with a picture showing her beloved pets left on the lawn. Prompt police intervention led to the rescue of some of the animals, but three geckos remain missing. The suspect, identified as Dennis Cregan, is now facing charges of cruelty to animals and felony drug possession.
Officers Respond to Disturbing Scene
Upon receiving a report from the animals’ owner, the Missoula Police Department dispatched an officer to investigate the incident. The officer contacted the owner, who expressed concerns about her safety and decided to send a friend to retrieve the abandoned animals. When officers arrived at the residence on Arcadia Drive, they discovered a disheartening scene. Children’s toys, household items, and a tipped-over glass terrarium with a digital thermometer were scattered across the front lawn.
Rescue Efforts and Animal Recovery
The owner’s friend, who had arrived to collect the animals, informed the officers that she hadn’t been able to locate them. Cregan, the suspect, admitted to leaving the geckos and kitten outside. Realizing the urgent need to find the animals before they succumbed to the freezing temperature, officers initiated a search. They discovered one gecko lethargic and cold under a leaf, while two others were found hiding under discarded items. These geckos, along with a fourth one, were consolidated into a small aquarium and placed in front of a heater in the friend’s vehicle. Unfortunately, three geckos could not be located.
During the search, officers also spotted movement under a small table on the front porch. It turned out to be a small tan kitten, matching the description of the abandoned pet. The officers retrieved the kitten and handed it over to the friend, who placed it with the other animals in her truck. With the animals now safe, the search for the remaining geckos continued but proved unsuccessful.
Arrest and Drug Discovery
Following the rescue operation, officers informed Cregan that he was under arrest. During the subsequent interview, Cregan admitted to intentionally abandoning the geckos, acknowledging their need for sufficient ambient temperature to survive. He confessed that he had no intention of taking care of them. Additionally, a search of Cregan’s belongings at the Missoula County Detention Center revealed a container meant for nicotine pouches, but instead contained several Adderall pills, a Schedule II stimulant drug.
Conclusion:
The abandonment of seven geckos and a kitten in freezing temperatures has shocked the Missoula community. Thanks to the swift response of the Missoula Police Department, some of the animals were rescued and are now safe. However, the search for the remaining geckos continues. The suspect, Dennis Cregan, is facing charges of cruelty to animals and felony drug possession. This case serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible pet ownership and the severe consequences of animal cruelty.
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