A Titusville man was arrested and charged with multiple counts of animal cruelty after police say he admitted to stabbing a puppy to death and keeping other dogs in inhumane conditions.

According to a report from the Titusville Police Department, officers responded to a home on Bermuda Street on March 4 to assist Brevard County Animal Control with an investigation into a deceased animal.

Upon arrival, officers discovered a dead puppy inside a trash bin, showing signs of a stab wound near its head and lungs. The body was still warm, and rigor mortis had not yet set in.

Deputies spoke with the suspect, identified as Michael D. Evenson, who allegedly confessed to killing the puppy, referring to it as “the problem.” He admitted to stabbing the dog with a sword after it was wounded by other dogs on the property and then discarding it in the trash.

Authorities noted that he made no effort to take the animal to a veterinarian before its death.

Further investigation revealed three additional puppies tethered outside in poor conditions. One dog was tied to a rotting object with no access to clean water, while another was restrained near a bucket of algae-filled water. A fourth dog, described as a “house dog,” was also found in need of veterinary care due to poor skin and coat conditions.

Officers reported that the surviving puppies displayed fearful and defensive behavior, avoiding human contact. One of the dogs had a stab wound on its leg consistent with injuries inflicted on the deceased puppy. No food or viable shelter was present at the scene, and available water sources were contaminated.

Evenson was arrested and charged with two counts of aggravated animal cruelty for the stabbing, one count of animal cruelty for failing to provide adequate care, and three counts of unlawful confinement of animals.

After confirming his actions in a post-Miranda statement, Evenson was transported to the Brevard County Jail without incident. Authorities stated that the evidence supports he knowingly inflicted harm on the animals, resulting in the suffering and death of one while neglecting the basic needs of the others.

He also faces a violation of a Brevard County ordinance for failing to provide proper shelter.