Christa Thristle of Oak Hill, near Cape Canaveral, is accused of throwing a caged cat into a river. According to the Volusia County Sheriff’s office, the woman and her ex-boyfriend were having a feud, which led to the incident.
Investigators shared that the 9-month-old cat, Stanley, belonged to her ex-boyfriend and was underwater for at least 20 seconds.
“It’s all wet. The cage went all the way to the bottom. When it came out, he was still alive…” stated a caller to 9-1-1.
Stanley survived after the ex-jumped in to save him. Deputies arrived moments later.
” I did not throw a cat in the river,” stated Christa.
But investigators say the evidence on scene at the Oak Hill campground showed otherwise.
“The cat’s soaked.. .I just need to verify, well the crate’s there too” stated deputies as they searched the scene.
Moments later, as Christa filled out the paperwork, she allegedly threatened to murder her ex. According to the arrest report, Christa demanded to be taken to jail so she could make a phone call, bond out and murder the ex.
“The court does not find that there are any conditions that would ensure the safety of the alleged victim in this case,” shared the judge.
Meanwhile, Stanley the cat is safe and has been taken into custody by the Local County Animal Services for a follow-up evaluation.