Police Free 21 Dogs from Hot U-Haul Near Temecula — Owner Faces 21 Felony Charges
Murrieta police officers rescued 21 Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, several of them pregnant, from a hot and unventilated U-Haul truck parked on private property near Temecula on May 1. Bodycam footage of the rescue has now been released, showing the moment officers discovered the dogs suffering inside the enclosed cargo area.
The incident began when Murrieta Police Department officers responded to a trespassing call in the 41000 block of Guava Street. They found a 15-foot U-Haul truck on the property with two dogs in the cab. Loud barking coming from the back prompted officers to investigate further.
When they opened the roll-up cargo door, they discovered 21 Cavalier King Charles Spaniels confined in the dark, unventilated space. The truck had been sitting in the Southern California heat with no air conditioning or proper airflow. Many of the dogs showed signs of neglect, including matted fur and limited access to food and water. Several females were pregnant.
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Animal Control officers quickly began removing the dogs to safety. While the rescue was underway, the truck’s owner returned to the scene in a separate SUV carrying approximately 12 additional dogs. Officers took her into custody at the location.
The Riverside County District Attorney’s Office later charged the suspect with 21 felony counts of animal cruelty, along with misdemeanor charges related to animal abandonment and leaving animals unattended in a vehicle. She remains in custody as the case proceeds.
All 33 dogs involved in the incident were transported to Animal Friends of the Valleys in Lake Elsinore. Veterinary teams there have been providing medical evaluations, treatment, and ongoing care. The organization continues to monitor the pregnant dogs and support the animals’ recovery.
Southern California summers bring extreme temperatures that make leaving any animal inside a vehicle extremely dangerous. Interior temperatures can rise rapidly even on mild days, leading to heatstroke and death within minutes. Animal welfare advocates remind the public that reporting suspected cruelty or neglect can save lives.
The Murrieta Police Department thanked community members who contacted authorities and praised the coordination with Animal Friends of the Valleys. Officials said the swift response prevented a worse outcome for the dogs.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are a popular small breed known for their affectionate nature. The breed is prone to certain health issues, making proper care and ventilation especially important during transport or confinement.
This case highlights ongoing concerns about animal hoarding and inadequate care in the Inland Empire. Riverside County animal control agencies handle numerous calls each year involving dogs and cats left in hot vehicles or overcrowded conditions.
Police bodycam video of the rescue has circulated widely online, drawing strong reactions from animal lovers across the country. Many have praised the officers and Animal Control teams for their quick action.
The dogs remain in the care of Animal Friends of the Valleys as they recover. Updates on their condition are expected in the coming weeks as veterinary staff continue assessments.
Anyone who witnesses animals in distress inside vehicles or in neglectful situations is urged to contact local police or animal control immediately. In Murrieta and surrounding areas, residents can reach the Murrieta Police Department or Riverside County Animal Services for assistance.
The investigation remains active as prosecutors prepare the case against the owner.
