Man faces animal cruelty charges 'for abandoning pet fish'
Officers find fish in poor health and swimming in dirty water
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.A man faces animal cruelty charges after he allegedly abandoned his pet fish.
Michael Ray Hinson, 53, was arrested in North Carolina on Wednesday and charged with three counts of misdemeanour cruelty to animals and one count of abandonment of an animal, WECT reported.
The New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office said Mr Hinson failed to provide fresh water and food to his Oscar fish after he was evicted from his home last month.
Officers found the fish in a tank that was left behind after he moved out. They said it was in poor health and swimming in dirty water.
Oscar fish can grow up to 18in in length and can be trained to do tricks.
When Mr Hinson’s fish was seized, it appeared to be malnourished and suffering from hole in the head disease.
The disease is caused by poor water quality and a lack of food.
Mr Hinson was released from jail on a $4,000 (£3,000) unsecured bond.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments