Woman arrested for allegedly killing puppy left in crate, police say
Jan 14, 2025
AUBURN, Ala. (WRBL) — A Southern Union student was escorted into the Lee County Detention Facility by an Auburn police officer on Tuesday.
Taylor Colbert’s hands were cuffed behind her back as she prepared to be booked into the detention facility on at least one count of aggravated cruelty to animals, a felony.
Auburn Police allege Colbert left her husky puppy, named Sky, locked in a kennel in her room for several days over the holiday break, leading to the animal’s death. The case has sparked widespread outrage on social media with many calling for justice for the puppy.
Authorities say Colbert turned herself in at the Auburn Police Department early Tuesday morning. Auburn police are expected to release additional details later.
Auburn Police confirm the investigation began after an animal abuse report was filed on Jan. 5. They are working closely with Auburn Animal Control on the case.
An acquaintance of Colbert shared a picture of Sky. Colbert being led into the Lee County Detention facility January 14.
Friends and acquaintances of Colbert have identified the deceased puppy as a young husky named Sky. According to these sources, Colbert left the dog unattended in her apartment before the holiday break. Upon her return, a roommate reportedly discovered the deceased puppy in a pink crate and contacted Auburn Animal Control to retrieve the remains. An acquaintance shared a video with WRBL, allegedly showing the deceased puppy lying on its side in the crate. The individual described the smell in the apartment as “horrendous” and claimed this was not the first instance of alleged mistreatment involving animals under Colbert’s care.
LCSO: Taylor Colbert
Southern Union State Community College released the following statement regarding the incident:
“We are deeply saddened by the death of the animal; however, since the incident did not occur on Southern Union property, the college will defer to the appropriate authorities for investigation and action.”
The incident has drawn significant attention on social media where posts about the allegations continue circulating.