Muncie Woman Arrested for Alleged Dogfighting Operation After 20+ Injured Animals Found
A Muncie woman, Eliza Henriquez, 36, was arrested and charged with felony animal cruelty and misdemeanor animal neglect after authorities uncovered over 20 abused, flea-infested animals at her home allegedly used for dogfighting.
Animal Control alerted Muncie police in early August after receiving multiple reports of dogs fighting in the backyard of a property in the 3000 block of Madison Street. Upon investigation, officials linked the property to Henriquez, who had a history of animal neglect arrests dating back to 2020.
Veterinary records revealed animals registered to Henriquez suffered from untreated injuries, including deep lacerations and severe flea infestations. A video surfaced showing a dog being attacked by several others in her yard, with no human intervention.
Neighbors corroborated ongoing suspicions, reporting weekly dogfighting activity and disturbing sounds of puppies being attacked over the past year.
During a search of the property, police found 15 dogs and 6 cats in deplorable conditions. One dog was severely injured and required urgent veterinary care.
Henriquez was arrested during a traffic stop on Sunday, August 31. During police questioning, she acknowledged the dog attack video and claimed one dog died due to medical treatment—not the attack. She also made controversial statements about race, veterinarians, and her treatment by authorities.
Henriquez was booked into Delaware County Jail and later released on a $10,000 bond. Official charges and court dates are pending.
