AUBURN, Ala. - On March 23, 2026, the Auburn Police Department received a report of an injured canine and an intoxicated subject located at an apartment in the 200 block of West Longleaf Drive. Officers responded and located the injured canine along with the owner, identified as Karina Lynn Higgins, 22 years old, of Auburn, Alabama.

Higgins was arrested for public intoxication and subsequently transported to East Alabama Medical Center for treatment. The canine was transported to the Auburn University School of Veterinary Medicine for treatment of its injuries and was later released and taken into protective custody by City of Auburn Animal Control.

After an investigation, a warrant for aggravated cruelty to animals was obtained for Higgins. On April 6, 2026, Higgins was arrested and is being held at the Lee County Jail on a $5000 bond. Anyone with any related information is encouraged to contact the Auburn Police Department at (334) 501-3100. Information can also be reported by calling or texting the tip line at (334) 246-1391 or by emailing police@auburnalabama.org.

All defendants are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.