A Lauderhill postal employee was arrested after video footage showed him deploying pepper spray on three dogs while on his mail delivery route. The worker, identified as 47-year-old Sian Spence, is charged with aggravated animal cruelty, according to Lauderhill police. NBC Miami reported that the incident took place on January 2 near the 1600 block of Northwest 51st Avenue.
Surveillance footage provided by the dogs’ owner, Bianca Green, shows her three Shih Tzu–poodle mixes—Ginger, DJ, and Junior—barking behind a fence when they were sprayed. According to Local 10, Green reported that the spraying occurred before the mail carrier reached the mailbox or fully approached the residence. Police said the suspect has worked for the U.S. Postal Service for about five years, and his employment status is currently under internal review.
The Lauderhill Police Department responded to the incident and emphasized that allegations of animal cruelty are taken seriously. In a statement obtained by NBC Miami, the department noted that intentional acts causing unnecessary suffering to animals are considered criminal offenses under Florida law. Authorities also confirmed that the dogs were examined and treated by a veterinarian and continue to be monitored for any potential ongoing effects.
Bianca Green reported that she became aware of the incident after speaking with the mail carrier, who stated that he had used pepper spray on her dogs and claimed they attempted to bite him. Green disputed this account, noting that the dogs were behind a secured gate at the time. She subsequently filed a police report and submitted complaints to both the U.S. Postal Service and the State Attorney’s Office, but said she has not yet received a response. USPS said local management has been informed of the situation and that it will be addressed appropriately.
