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On May 30, 2025, temperatures in Las Vegas hit 105 degrees according to the National Weather Service. Considering the extreme heat, it makes sense that local weather stations were on high alert, being vigilant to inform citizens and remind them not to leave their pets outdoors.
Not everyone took heed of those warnings, though, including 30-year-old Olivia Underwood, who is now sitting behind bars as a result of her actions.
According to reports, Clark County Animal Protection Services was called out to a residence at around 2 P.M. The residence was in the 6800 block of Frances Celia Avenue, and the call was made by police officers. While it’s unclear how police discovered the tragic situation, Metropolitan Police Department officers called animal protection services after discovering a deceased dog outside in a crate.
Reports suggest the pet had been left outside in extreme heat for several hours before it passed away. Underwood is currently being charged with willful and malicious torture and the maiming or killing of a dog. She was able to post bail and was released from police custody. Her hearing is scheduled to take place in July.
According to records obtained from the Nevada State Board of Nursing, the suspect is currently employed as a certified nursing assistant. She’s been in that role since 2013, and a UMC spokesperson confirmed to media outlets that the suspect is currently working at the UMC hospital. Considering the suspect’s knowledge of healthcare and heat-related illnesses, the incident seems even more egregious.
Animal cruelty is taken very seriously in Las Vegas, especially in light of the very recent passing of Reba’s Law. Reba’s Law passed the NV legislature on June 2, 2025, and the goal of this law is to increase the penalties associated with animal cruelty and torture.
Before this law, the first offense of cruelty or torture to animals was considered a category D felony, which included penalties of up to four years in prison. Now, that same charge will result in a category C felony, which could result in a sentence of up to five years in prison. The new legislation also specifies that if the animal perishes as a result of the cruelty, then the suspect could face up to ten years behind bars.
Right now, this bill is currently on Governor Lombardo’s desk to either be signed into law or hit with a veto.
That said, anyone who is charged with animal cruelty could potentially face enhanced consequences in the near future.
The good news is that the right legal representative can help you fight back against your charges. Here at LV Criminal Defense, our legal team has extensive experience representing clients who have been charged with violent crimes, including animal cruelty. You can rely on us to offer judgment-free representation.
Get in touch with our team now to schedule a free case review by leaving your contact details on our online form or by calling us at (702) 623-6362.
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