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Zack Keithy, our author, is a certified veterinarian technician (UC Blue Ash) for over 6 years (contact him here). The articles written here are based on his expertise and experience, combined with a review by our expert vet reviewers including Dr M. Tarantino. Learn more about us here.
Police in South Florida have launched an active animal cruelty investigation after graphic video surfaced on social media depicting a deceased dog chained to a cinder block underwater. The Miami Herald reported the story on October 14, 2026.
The investigation began after a social media user posted photos and video indicating a medium-sized dog had been found submerged near a sunken sailboat in the main channel near Coconut Grove. The footage showed the animal chained by its legs to a concrete block beneath the surface.
Miami Beach Police initially flagged the post and began verifying its authenticity alongside animal resource officers. After determining the location fell within the Coconut Grove area, jurisdiction was transferred to the Miami Police Department, whose detectives are actively following leads to identify those responsible.
Miami-Dade County Animal Services also responded to the scene where the dog was located. Authorities are appealing to the public for any information regarding the dog’s origin or owner, asking tipsters to contact the Miami Police Department at 305-579-6111.
My thoughts:
The role of social media in flagging severe animal welfare cases remains significant, as public visibility often prompts swift law enforcement coordination across jurisdictional boundaries.
Handing the case from Miami Beach to the Miami Police Department demonstrates how inter-agency cooperation is required when incidents occur in marine channels bordering multiple municipal zones.
Digital forensics and public tips will be essential for detectives attempting to trace ownership and hold perpetrators accountable in cases involving waterborne evidence.
Source: Miami Herald and the Miami Police Department
