Suspect Wanted for Leaving Food in Pasadena That Can Sicken Dogs – Pasadena Now

Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger is urging residents to help identify a suspect who has been leaving food that is poisonous for dogs along a busy boulevard in Pasadena.

The person, captured on surveillance video, has been placing grapes and chocolates mixed with rice or noodles on public walkways along Foothill Boulevard between Sierra Madre and Rosemead Boulevards for several months, according to local business owners.

"I am outraged that someone is going out of their way to hurt dogs and their unsuspecting owners who are just enjoying a trot down Foothill Boulevard," Barger said. "This person needs to be immediately identified and stopped, animal cruelty should never be tolerated. This is just plain wrong."

Jacks Vasquez, general manager of Dogtopia, a dog daycare and boarding facility in the 3400 block of E. Foothill Blvd. in East Pasadena, reported the incidents after reviewing security footage, according to Barger.

Vasquez warned that even small amounts of grapes can be lethal to dogs, while chocolate can cause severe illness.

Pasadena Police Chief Gene Harris promised his department will investigate any animal cruelty reports.

"Reports can be directed to the Pasadena Police Department and they will be investigated to the full extent. Any actual and reported cruelty to animals will be taken very seriously and with assertive enforcement," Harris said.

The suspect was seen crouching near a dirt patch outside Dogtopia, leaving behind clusters of grapes and chocolate M&M's.

Local dog owners frequently walk their pets in the area, raising concerns about potential harm to animals.