SANFORD, Fla. — A Sanford HVAC technician has been arrested on an aggravated animal cruelty charge after police say he intentionally kicked a homeowner’s dog while working inside the residence.
According to the Sanford Police Department, officers were notified of the incident on Wednesday.
Police said the incident was captured by a Furbo dog treat dispenser inside the home.
The device’s camera was activated by the dog’s movement and recorded the technician allegedly kicking the small dog.
Investigators said the dog was rendered unconscious for a significant period of time following the kick.
The homeowner witnessed the incident through the Furbo video and contacted Sanford police, according to investigators.
Police identified the suspect as Richardson Noel, 43, and said he was arrested and charged with aggravated animal cruelty.
Sanford Police Chief Cecil Smith called the incident disturbing, saying the suspect violated the trust placed in him while working inside someone’s home.
“It is deeply disturbing that someone entrusted with entering a person’s home to complete a service would violate that trust by viciously injuring a defenseless animal,” Smith said in a statement. “The video is difficult to watch and shows the callousness of this individual.”
Police are asking anyone with additional information about the incident to contact the Sanford Police Department or Crimeline at 800-423-TIPS (8477).
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