A deeply disturbing case of tenant neglect has resulted in criminal charges after a landlord made a horrifying discovery.
Key Points:
- A landlord in Utica, NY, found a deceased dog locked in a crate inside a closet that had been sealed with spray foam.
- The former tenant, Anaiya Harris, had vacated the apartment several weeks earlier.
- Utica Police launched an investigation on June 5, 2025, after the landlord’s report.
- Harris has been charged with aggravated animal abuse.
Why This Matters for Arizona Landlords:
- Property Inspections Are Critical: Regular and final walkthroughs are essential. Situations like this show the need for systematic tenant offboarding and thorough property inspections before re-leasing.
- Legal Risk Exposure: Landlords unaware of such tenant behavior may find themselves facing legal or reputational fallout. This is a reminder to have airtight lease clauses covering tenant responsibility for animals and property condition.
- Support for Third-Party Management: According to national property management reports, 85% of landlords using property managers feel it helps reduce legal liability. Incidents like this highlight the value of professional oversight.