Temecula, CA, December 5, 2025
Christopher Settle, the owner of Angel Paws Pet Cremation in San Marcos, has been arrested at his Temecula residence. His arrest follows an investigation into the abrupt closure of his business, which left many pet owners without their pets’ remains. The investigation revealed improper storage of over 100 pets, resulting in decomposition and raising serious concerns within the community about the handling of remains. Authorities are urging anyone affected to come forward.
Temecula, CA
Owner of Pet Cremation Business Arrested Amid Investigation
Christopher Settle, 39, owner of Angel Paws Pet Cremation in San Marcos, was arrested at his Temecula residence on December 2, 2025, following a grand theft arrest warrant issued by a North County Superior Court judge. He waived extradition and was transported to San Diego County, where he was booked at the Vista Detention Facility. The arrest is part of an ongoing criminal investigation into the business’s abrupt closure earlier this year.
Details of the Investigation
Angel Paws Pet Cremation ceased operations without prior notice in late summer 2025, leaving numerous pet owners without their pets’ remains. In October, detectives from the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office served a search warrant at the facility, uncovering over 100 pets stored in freezers, many without proper labeling. Some animals had been left unrefrigerated for extended periods, leading to decomposition. The landlord discovered nearly 4,000 pounds of decomposed animal remains during a cleanup in November.
Background on the Business
Angel Paws Pet Cremation was a pet cremation service based in San Marcos, California. The business abruptly closed in late summer 2025, leaving many pet owners without their pets’ remains. The closure prompted an investigation by the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office, leading to the discovery of improperly stored and decomposed animal remains.
Community Impact
The sudden closure and subsequent investigation have raised concerns among pet owners and the community regarding the handling and disposal of pets’ remains. The Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone with information about Angel Paws Pet Cremation or who believes they may have been a victim of a financial crime to contact the San Marcos Sheriff’s Station at (760) 510-5200.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is Christopher Settle?
Christopher Settle, 39, is the owner of Angel Paws Pet Cremation in San Marcos, California. He was arrested on December 2, 2025, in Temecula, following a grand theft arrest warrant issued by a North County Superior Court judge.
What led to the arrest of Christopher Settle?
The arrest is part of an ongoing criminal investigation into the abrupt closure of Angel Paws Pet Cremation earlier this year. The investigation revealed that the business ceased operations without prior notice, leaving numerous pet owners without their pets’ remains.
What was discovered during the investigation?
During the investigation, detectives from the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office served a search warrant at the facility, uncovering over 100 pets stored in freezers, many without proper labeling. Some animals had been left unrefrigerated for extended periods, leading to decomposition. The landlord discovered nearly 4,000 pounds of decomposed animal remains during a cleanup in November.
How has the community been affected?
The sudden closure and subsequent investigation have raised concerns among pet owners and the community regarding the handling and disposal of pets’ remains. The Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone with information about Angel Paws Pet Cremation or who believes they may have been a victim of a financial crime to contact the San Marcos Sheriff’s Station at (760) 510-5200.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Business Name | Angel Paws Pet Cremation |
| Location | San Marcos, California |
| Owner | Christopher Settle, 39 |
| Arrest Date | December 2, 2025 |
| Arrest Location | Temecula, California |
| Investigation Findings | Over 100 pets stored in freezers, many without proper labeling; some animals left unrefrigerated, leading to decomposition; nearly 4,000 pounds of decomposed animal remains discovered during a cleanup in November. |
| Community Impact | Raised concerns among pet owners and the community regarding the handling and disposal of pets’ remains. |
| Contact Information | San Marcos Sheriff’s Station at (760) 510-5200 for anyone with information or who believes they may have been a victim of a financial crime. |
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San Diego County Pet Cremation Business Owner Arrested
Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
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