CORONA, CA– The Corona Police Department arrested a suspect for animal cruelty after reports of malnourished dogs at a residence in Corona.

On March 3, 2025, Corona Police Officers and Animal Control Officers responded to a residence on E. Grand Blvd., Corona, regarding reports of dogs appearing to need food and medical attention. Officers located several dogs on the property, including many who appeared to be injured and in need of immediate medical care or attention. No water or food was seen on the property.

Officers were able to contact the dog’s owner, Joseph Frausto (34 years old of Corona), via telephone and he claimed a family member was supposed to be caring for the animals. Animal Control officers took 10 Mastiff breed dogs into their care and transported them to a local veterinarian. Unfortunately, two of the dogs were in such poor health that they had to be euthanized at the recommendation of a veterinarian.

Our investigation revealed that Frausto was a convicted felon and currently on probation in Los Angeles County for reckless evading. Corona Police served a search warrant at the location locating ammunition, which Frausto cannot possess given his status as a convicted felon.

On March 19, 2025, detectives located Frausto leaving his residence and he was arrested for animal cruelty and illegally being in possession of live ammunition. He was later booked at the Robert Presley Detention Center.

The veterinary expenses for these animals were largely covered by the generous contributions from our community. If you’d like to learn more about donation opportunities, the current status of these animals, or information about the Corona Animal Shelter, please visit our website at https://www.coronaca.gov/government/departments-divisions/animal-services-enforcement, or contact us by phone at 951-736-2309.

About the City of Corona: Corona is a vibrant, culturally diverse community located in the heart of Southern California at the junction of the 91 and 15 freeways with a population of more than 160,000 residents. For more information regarding the City of Corona, visit www.CoronaCA.gov.

Media Contact

Robert Montanez

Police Sergeant

951-736-2412

Robert.Montanez@CoronaCA.Gov

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