Man arrested after throwing injured cat into dumpster in Laguna Hills incident seen on video

LAGUNA HILLS, Calif (CNS) -- A man was arrested after he was caught on surveillance video tossing an injured cat into a dumpster in Laguna Hills, officials announced Wednesday.

The incident occurred around 7:20 p.m. Monday near the 25000 block of Cabot Road, according to Mission Viejo Animal Services. Surveillance video shows the man exiting a vehicle, retrieving a white garbage bag and discarding it into the dumpster.

"Through our social media, the cat owner came forward and identified the man was her roommate seen in the video, and we conducted an investigation and have probable cause that the suspect was in violation of animal cruelty," said Mission Viejo Animal Services Supervisor Kyle Werner.

Officials said they were notified Tuesday about an injured feline found in a dumpster, just minutes before it was scheduled for collection.

The cat was suffering from extensive injuries and was taken to a local animal hospital, where she is receiving treatment and is expected to recover, officials said.

"Despite this heartbreaking betrayal, Willow continues to show immense affection to the veterinary staff caring for her, purring and seeking comfort from those providing her with kindness and affection," Mission Viejo Animal Services said in a statement.

The identity of the man arrested was not immediately available.

Donations to support Willow's recovery and other animals in need can be made to the Dedicated Animal Welfare Group at dawg.org.