HOUSTON – A Houston woman has been arrested and charged with the brutal mistreatment of two dogs, authorities said. Deputies from Harris County Constable Precinct One, led by Constable Alan Rosen, took Lakesha Laquesha Neal, 43, into custody on Friday. She faces two felony counts of cruelty to non-livestock animals and, if convicted, could serve up to two years in state jail.
“We must be the voice for those who cannot speak for themselves,” said Constable Rosen. “This kind of abuse is unacceptable, and we appreciate everyone who came forward to report it.”
The mistreatment took place at an apartment complex in the 800 block of Greens Road. Investigators determined that while Neal did not own the dogs, they were in her care at the time of the abuse.
Surveillance footage revealed disturbing acts of violence. Neal was seen kicking a mixed-breed dog in the head, choking it to the point that its eyes bulged, and tightening a leash around its neck so severely that the dog vomited. Additional footage captured her slapping, punching, whipping, and further choking the same dog, as well as another mixed-breed canine. Both dogs were left outside for hours without food, water, or shelter, despite temperatures reaching 86 degrees this week.
Following an investigation in collaboration with the Houston Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Houston SPCA), Precinct One deputies arrested Neal at her residence. Authorities are now working to locate the dogs and assess their well-being.
Under Texas law, animal cruelty is a felony offense, strengthened by “Loco’s Law,” a 2001 statute named after a Texas puppy whose eyes were cruelly gouged out. The legislation, backed by the Texas Humane Legislation Network (THLN), ensures stricter penalties for such crimes.
“If you see something, say something,” Rosen urged. “Protecting both people and animals in Harris County is our duty.”
If you suspect animal abuse, please report it to the Houston SPCA at 713-869-7722.
