Updated release: Mesquite Animal Shelter officers seize 77 dogs

(Update to media release from May 18)

Mesquite NV – May 19, 2026 — The Mesquite Police Department, in coordination with the Animal Control Division, has made arrests in connection with the ongoing animal welfare investigation involving a large number of dogs recovered earlier this week.

Following the initial recovery of 77 dogs from an RV within the City of Mesquite, investigators continued to gather evidence and information
related to the case. After completing a thorough investigation, officers located the suspect and took him and a female into custody this morning without incident. This investigation had been ongoing for several months and investigators received the final pieces of evidence needed make the arrest with the appropriate charges.

Giustino Laudando and Michelle Santos were both arrested and booked on the following charges:

8 counts of Animal Cruelty, Felony

100+ counts of Animal Neglect, Misdemeanor

Additional charges may be added pending ongoing evaluations of the dogs. During the arrest, an additional 33 dogs were located and taken into protective custody, bringing the total number of animals recovered in this case to 114.

All animals have been transported to the Mesquite Animal Shelter, where they are receiving care. The Mesquite Animal Shelter continues to work diligently to provide medical treatment, proper nutrition, and safe housing for all animals involved.