A woman has pleaded guilty to felony animal cruelty after authorities said she placed a live dog inside a kennel and threw him into an Oklahoma lake, leaving the animal trapped underwater.

The heartbreaking case centers on Nate, a five-year-old dog who belonged to Kyleigh Lain Estes’ estranged husband.

According to investigators, Estes placed Nate inside a crate, waited for the dog to calm down, carried the kennel to a dock on Grand Lake, and then threw it into the water.

Unable to escape, Nate drowned inside the enclosed kennel.

His body was later discovered by a local resident near a pier, still trapped inside the crate.

When questioned by police, Estes admitted her actions. She told investigators she had been struggling with the stress of an ongoing divorce and claimed the dog had become aggressive and was nearing the end of his life.

However, Nate’s owner strongly disputed those claims, telling authorities that the dog had never been known to be aggressive.

News of the incident quickly spread, prompting widespread anger among animal lovers and members of the local community. Many expressed disbelief that a defenseless animal could be subjected to such a frightening and tragic fate.

The case eventually led to criminal charges, and Estes has now pleaded guilty to felony animal cruelty.

During sentencing, the judge described her actions as “heinous” and “𝚜𝚑𝚘𝚌𝚔𝚒𝚗𝚐 to the community.”

She received a five-year deferred sentence and will remain on probation. In addition, she has been ordered to complete mental health evaluations, anger management courses, cognitive behavioral programs, and substance abuse treatment.

For many who followed the case, the outcome serves as a reminder of the responsibility that comes with caring for animals and the importance of reporting suspected cruelty.

While Nate’s life ended tragically, supporters hope his story will continue to raise awareness about animal welfare and encourage stronger protection for vulnerable animals in the future.