Animal Abuse Epidemic in Las Vegas: Why Reba’s Law Matters Now More Than Ever

Las Vegas is no stranger to violence, but the last year has exposed another epidemic hiding in plain sight — the abuse and neglect of animals. In Episode 78 of Sins and Survivors, we examine not just the heartbreaking story of Reba the bulldog, but a disturbing wave of cruelty cases that shook our city, the movement they inspired, and the legislative battle now underway.

Reba’s Story: The Turning Point

In the sweltering heat of summer 2024, Reba was found barely alive in a plastic tub near a dumpster. The storage bin had been sealed shut and left to bake in 110-degree temperatures. Despite emergency veterinary care, Reba died days later from heatstroke.

Her death outraged Las Vegas. Surveillance footage, witness statements, and dog fur found in an apartment led investigators to two suspects: Isaac Laushal Jr. and Markeisha Foster. They were arrested and indicted on felony animal cruelty charges. But under Nevada law at the time, even a case this cruel could carry as little as one year in prison.

The Law That Wasn’t — and Then Was

In response to Reba’s death, Assembly Bill 381 — Reba’s Law — was introduced in March 2025 by Melissa Hardy, Melanie Scheible, and Brian Hibbets. The bill would finally give Nevada a way to hold animal abusers accountable:

• Category B felony for willful, malicious cruelty resulting in death (1–10 years prison, $10,000 fine)

• Category D felony for reckless acts like torture or killing without needing to prove intent

• Lifetime or 7-year bans on animal ownership for felony offenders

• Expanded definitions of torture and cruelty

• Added protections for police K9s and animals in domestic violence cases

But just weeks later, outrage turned to disbelief — the bill died in committee without a vote.

Public Outcry and a Resurrection

The backlash was swift. Petitions. Phone calls. Protest. Legislators heard from angry constituents who demanded accountability. Within five days, Reba’s Law was revived with a waiver and even strengthened to include:

• A permanent ban on animal ownership for felony abusers

• New protections for domestic violence victims whose animals are harmed or threatened

• The ability to seek a restraining order against someone who harms your pet

This bill is about more than punishment — it’s about giving victims of abuse and their animals a real path to safety.

Abuse Cases Keep Coming

Even as Reba’s Law was making headlines, other horrific stories surfaced:

• A man named Alexis Flores was caught on Ring camera throwing a Chihuahua into a dumpster and slamming the lid shut. The dog, Marley, miraculously survived.

• James Harris, a veteran K9 officer with the Clark County School District, left his police dog, also named Marley, in a hot car for seven hours. The dog died. Despite obvious negligence, he’s only facing misdemeanors under current law.

• On April 23, police responded to gunshots and found a dog shot 13 times and locked in a kennel. The shooter? Kevin Hoskins, now facing firearm and animal cruelty charges.

Each case adds urgency to the push for real reform.

Animal Abuse and Domestic Violence: A Hidden Link

Many of these cases intersect with domestic violence — abusers who hurt animals to terrorize their partners. Victims often stay in dangerous situations because they fear for their pets’ lives.

Local shelters like Safe House, Safe Nest, and Noah’s Animal House understand this. They offer pet-friendly options so survivors don’t have to choose between safety and leaving a beloved companion behind. Since its founding, Noah’s has cared for over 1,900 animals and helped survivors from more than 30 states.

What’s Next?

As of now, Reba’s Law is back in motion, working through committee and expected to be voted on. Governor Joe Lombardo has signaled support. But nothing is guaranteed — and the number of abuse cases keeps climbing.

We’ll continue to cover every development, every court hearing, and every act of justice — or injustice — that follows.

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Together, we can raise awareness and demand justice — not just for Reba, but for every voiceless victim.