Santa Barbara man tortured, cooked his dog ‘Coco’ in front of family

A shocking case of animal cruelty has emerged in Santa Barbara County, where a man allegedly killed and cooked the family dog. The suspect, 37-year-old Justo Alejandro Buenrostro, was arrested on April 18 for the brutal act.

According to reports, Buenrostro cut and cooked the dog, named Coco, at his residence in Santa Maria. It remains unclear whether he consumed the dog, but deputies were called to the scene and discovered evidence of the heinous crime.

Following the discovery, the Santa Barbara County District Attorney’s Office filed a criminal complaint against Buenrostro, charging him with one count of cruelty to an animal. The complaint alleges that he maliciously and intentionally maimed, mutilated, tortured, and wounded the living animal.

An additional sentencing enhancement was included for the use of a deadly weapon, a knife, in the crime. Buenrostro’s arrest also prompted an emergency protective order, requiring him to stay 150 yards away from adults and children at his home.

The protective order revealed that Buenrostro continued to cook the dog even as law enforcement arrived on the scene. The individuals involved expressed fear for their lives and safety in the wake of the disturbing incident.

Despite the charges and evidence against him, Buenrostro has pleaded not guilty. He is currently in custody at SBCSO’s Northern Branch Jail on $100,000 bail. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for May 21, during which his attorneys and the judge may set a trial date.

This horrifying case of animal cruelty has shocked the community and raised concerns about the treatment of animals. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are working to ensure justice is served for Coco the dog.