Rechnitz man arrested for alleged animal cruelty

A 35-year-old man has been arrested in Rechnitz, Burgenland, on suspicion of animal cruelty after allegedly killing his cat with a pipe wrench. The incident came to light after two individuals reported the matter to the Rechnitz police station, providing photos and videos that the suspect had reportedly recorded himself.

According to police reports, the man claimed he killed the animal because it had scratched him. Witnesses stated that after striking the cat with the wrench, the man attempted to decapitate the animal using a spade. He subsequently buried the cat in a manure pile in his garden.

Officers recovered the animal from the manure pile and handed it over to the veterinary office. Police also seized the tools used in the act and inspected other animals on the property, including ducks and chickens, finding no injuries to them. The suspect tested positive during a preliminary alcohol test. The Eisenstadt Public Prosecutor's Office has ordered investigative detention, and the man has been transferred to the Eisenstadt correctional facility. A preliminary weapons ban has also been issued.