An Italian police bloodhound named Bruno was found dead on July 4 in his shed in Taranto, southern Italy, after being fed food laced with nails. The horrific killing has sparked a criminal investigation to find those responsible.
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The incident has drawn widespread condemnation and highlights the potential dangers faced by those involved in animal rescue and law enforcement support in Italy.
Details of the Killing
Bruno, a seven-year-old, 195-pound bloodhound, was discovered by his trainer, Arcangelo Caressa. Caressa reported that the dog had been given dog food deliberately mixed with nails.
This method caused intense internal suffering, tearing apart Bruno’s esophagus and internal organs. The act is seen as intentionally cruel and designed to cause excruciating pain before death.
Dog food mixed with sharp nails, believed to be used to kill Italian police bloodhound Bruno.
Investigation Underway
Italian authorities have launched a criminal investigation into Bruno’s death. The Prosecutor’s Office and police forces are jointly working to identify and apprehend the perpetrators of what has been described as a heinous crime.
The investigation is exploring various motives and potential suspects based on information provided by the trainer and other sources.
Trainer’s Suspicions
Arcangelo Caressa, who trained and handled Bruno, runs ENDAS, a volunteer public animal rescue organization. This group is known for rescuing dogs, including those involved in illegal dogfights.
Caressa suspects the killing was an act of revenge aimed at him personally, rather than at the dog specifically. He told The Associated Press that Bruno was killed “to get to me.”
He claims that his organization’s work, which sometimes involves rescuing animals from activities potentially linked to organized crime, may have angered certain individuals. Caressa stated he has received threats, persecution, defamation, and slander in recent months from individuals known to judicial authorities, who he believes have been trying to undermine or take over the rescue service.
Bruno’s Service and Legacy
Bruno was a highly effective police bloodhound, having helped locate nine people during his career as a sniffer dog. His trainer described him as a “giant” with unique tracking abilities.
Caressa recounted Bruno’s dedication to search operations, saying, “He would set off, smell the person we were looking for and run like a train until we found them.” Bruno was a valuable asset in rescue efforts, contributing to the safety of the public.
Political Reactions and Legal Context
Italy’s Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, condemned Bruno’s killing, calling it “vile, cowardly, unacceptable.” She shared a photo with Bruno from a past rescue, expressing gratitude for his service.
Lawmaker Michael Vittoria Brambilla, a prominent animal rights activist, filed a criminal complaint related to the case. Her action is supported by a new law, often referred to as the “Brambilla Law,” which stiffens penalties for killing or mistreating animals.
The law, effective July 1, carries potential penalties of up to four years in prison and a 60,000-euro fine. Stiffer penalties apply if the mistreatment causes death, is committed using the animal’s service (like Bruno’s), is done intentionally prolonging suffering, or is filmed and disseminated.
Brambilla highlighted that Bruno’s killing might be linked to his role in confiscating dogs used in fighting, suggesting a specific motive tied to illegal activities. She emphasized that the perpetrator should be identified and punished according to the new law.
Emotional Impact and Pursuit of Justice
Arcangelo Caressa expressed deep grief over Bruno’s death in social media posts, describing the dog as his “loyal shadow” and “hero.” He conveyed the profound loss felt by himself and others who relied on Bruno’s work.
Caressa has publicly stated his determination to seek justice for Bruno through all available means, emphasizing that the dog deserves truth, respect, and memory. The case has resonated widely, prompting calls for increased protection for service animals and stricter enforcement against animal cruelty.
Investigators continue their efforts to identify and prosecute those responsible under Italy’s updated animal protection laws.
Explore related stories about animal cruelty laws and the work of police service animals for further context.
