Severed Cat Heads Left On Mailbox By Suspect: FL Sheriff

BONITA SPRINGS, FL — A man faces aggravated stalking and animal cruelty charges after leaving two severed cat heads on top of a mailbox in Bonita Springs, the Lee County Sheriff’s Office said in a news release.

Deputies responded to a criminal animal call at a home in the 25000 block of Carnoustie Court on March 13, the sheriff’s office said. The victim said they found the cat heads on top of their mailbox.

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Detectives searched the scene for evidence and ultimately established Robert James Luther III, 37, as a potential suspect.

They used license plate readers and other technology to determine that Luther was in the area at the same time the crime was committed.

Later that day, deputies found him fishing in the area of Corporation Circle behind a closed business. During an interview, he invoked his right to remain silent, the sheriff’s office said.

Through search warrants, including a DNA search warrant, detectives found evidence “to be consistent with their investigation to include disturbing cell phone videos where Luther … made mention and depicts the deceased cats,” the agency said.

He was charged with two counts of aggravated animal cruelty and two counts of aggravated stalking.

“Heinous violent acts, especially toward innocent animals, is beyond unacceptable and any offender will face severe consequences to the fullest extent of the law,” Sheriff Carmine Marceno said. “The combined efforts of multiple units ensured this sick individual got locked behind bars before he could hurt anyone else."