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Sarasota County deputies arrest man accused of burning rabbit

Posted at 6:22 PM, Jul 06, 2016
and last updated 2016-07-07 23:30:58-04
UPDATE:
 
In less than 24 hours, the 22-year-old responsible for the intentional burning of a domestic rabbit named “Thumper” was taken into custody.
 
Walker was located early Thursday in the 300 block of East Grace Street in Punta Gorda, thanks to the joint efforts of the SCSO Fugitive Apprehension Unit, Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office and Punta Gorda Police Department.
 
He is currently being held in the Charlotte County Jail.
 
ORIGINAL STORY:
 
Sarasota County deputies are searching for a man accused of setting a rabbit on fire.
 
Manasseh Walker, 22, of Englewood faces a charge of aggravated animal cruelty, according to Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office.
 
The rabbit was injured June 12. According to deputies, witnesses say Walker claimed the rabbit, Thumper, bit him. A few minutes later, deputies said, he was seen chasing the pet while it was on fire.
 
Deputies believe Walker is in Charlotte County, possibly in Punta Gorda.
 
If you have information on his location, contact Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office at 941-316-1201.