Two Men Charged in Austin Dog Dumping Case

Two men, Fred Riess and Rafael Cantu Baez-Riess, have been charged with multiple offenses, including animal cruelty and unauthorized discharge, after 15 dead dogs were discovered in South Boggy Creek in Austin. The investigation revealed an additional 33 dead dogs found in a freezer at their new property, raising concerns about their treatment of animals. The initial discovery occurred in April when a realtor found the deceased dogs after the men had vacated their former home, leading to a broader search. Neighbors reported strange occurrences and the abandonment of several ducks, which prompted the police investigation. Animal rights advocates emphasize the importance of proper investigation procedures in such cases. The suspects face felony and misdemeanor charges, and they claim the dogs were kept in the freezer temporarily due to cremation costs.