Man suspected of injuring pet tortoise arrested again for breaking into the same school
George Robles mugshot. Photo: San Jose police dept.
SAN JOSE, Calif. - A suspect who was arrested for severely injuring a 70-year-old tortoise at a San Jose preschool this weekend was arrested again for breaking into the same school, police say.
George Robles, 40, listed as being unhoused, is accused of stabbing Michelangelo the pet tortoise. Robles, now facing vandalism and animal abuse charges, was freed from Santa Clara County Jail.
But on Monday morning, San Jose police said Robles broke into Play ‘N’ Learn Preschool again. Police did not indicate the sheriff department's reason for Robles' release. However, they did take a burglary report from the school on Monday.
SJPD's mobile crisis response team was able to locate the suspect and arrested him by late Monday afternoon.
Robles was set to undergo a mental health evaluation from the incident involving the tortoise.
Michelangelo is a 65-pound African sulcata tortoise. The animal, stunning in stature, is recovering at a pet hospital from injuries suffered in this horrific attack. The hospital is caring for Michelangelo free of charge.
On Monday, a GoFundMe was launched to help pay for the tortoise’s treatment and rehabilitation.
Animal caretakers said that Michelangelo had to undergo surgery to assess internal damage and remove debris including glass and pieces of wood from inside his shell.
Michelangelo a 65-pound African sulcata tortoise has been undergoing treatment at ARCH Veterinary Hospital in San Jose, after suffering various wounds, lashes, stabbings to his shell. (GoFundMe/Shani Solomon)
Dr. Tal Solomon of ARCH Vet hospital has been treating the animal at no cost. "He wishes for the tortoise to make a full recovery and return home where he is loved and adored," organizers of the GoFundMe said, adding, "All the proceeds will go directly towards the costs of Michelangelo’s rehabilitation, as well as, aiding other animals who have gone through abuse, harm, and neglect."
SJPD have posted follow-ups to social media on Michelangelo's condition. They said he has a strong appetite and is enjoying the strawberries officers brought him in a gift basket.
Play ‘N’ Learn Preschool is looking into getting a restraining order against Robles.