Minas Gerais police investigate dog deaths linked to inheritance dispute

The Civil Police of Minas Gerais are investigating the deaths of several dogs at a rural property in the Calambau community, located in Itaúna. The investigation was prompted by images showing a dog hanging from a gate at the residence of an elderly couple.

The family of the property owners reported that the incidents may be linked to an ongoing family dispute regarding land and inheritance. In addition to the dog found at the gate, the family reported the disappearance of two other animals. They also noted that a Fila breed dog had been found dead inside a feed bag near a river in July.

Authorities are also looking into death threats made against the residents stemming from the property conflict. Federal Deputy Fred Costa has requested that the Public Ministry and the Civil Police expedite the investigation under the ‘Lei Sansão’, which mandates prison sentences of two to five years for crimes involving the mistreatment of dogs and cats.