Spring Hill Man Arrested After Kitten Killed During Argument
A Spring Hill man was arrested after authorities say he killed a 12 week old kitten during a domestic dispute on December 6, 2025. The case raises concerns about domestic violence and animal safety in Hernando County, and officials are asking residents to share information through Crime Stoppers.
Hernando County deputies responded at approximately 1:30 a.m. on December 6 to a Lightwood Street residence in Spring Hill after a report of battery. Deputies contacted the female victim, who said she had been involved in an argument with her live in boyfriend, identified as 22 year old Cayden Lemay, born October 1, 2003. During the dispute deputies say Lemay became physically aggressive and pushed the victim into a bathroom.
The victim told deputies that Lemay then grabbed her 12 week old kitten, threw the animal to the ground and stomped on it, causing the kitten to die. Animal Services responded to the home and took possession of the deceased kitten, which had been adopted from Animal Services earlier. Based on the investigation deputies established probable cause and took Lemay into custody without incident.
Lemay was charged with Aggravated Animal Cruelty and Domestic Battery and transported to the Hernando County Detention Center. He was initially held without bond and was later given a 2,000 dollar bond at his first appearance. The sheriff's office said it was deeply saddened that an adopted shelter animal was the victim of what it called a senseless act of violence.
The episode underscores two community concerns. Acts of animal cruelty often accompany or indicate broader patterns of violence that can affect families and households across Hernando County. Residents who adopted pets from local shelters may feel particular unease knowing the animal involved had recently been placed through Animal Services. Law enforcement encourages anyone with information about this case to come forward to assist investigators.
To submit an anonymous tip contact Hernando County Crime Stoppers at 1 866 990 TIPS, by texting TIPS from a cell phone, or online at http://www.hernandocountycrimestoppers.com. Tipsters may be eligible for a reward up to 5,000 dollars. For additional information contact Community Relations Coordinator Jessica Burns at 352 797 3660.
