TWO teenage boys have been charged with animal cruelty after a cat was thrown into the Manchester Ship Canal near The Deck in Runcorn.
The incident is believed to have happened between 11pm on Tuesday and 3am on Wednesday.
The cat's owner Ami Garner had posted messages on Facebook warning people to be vigilant.
Ami posted: "Ben (cat) is in shock as he won't come near us. Please tell others to check their cats."
*WARNING THIS FOOTAGE MAY UPSET SOME READERS*
A police investigation was launched with chief inspector Sarah Heath at Runcorn Police Station, calling the incident "a cruel and callous act".
Two 16-year-olds have been charged in connection with the incident with animal cruelty.
Police added one of the boys has also been charged with breaching a criminal behaviour order.
Officers also reassured the public that the cat is "safe and well".
It has been assessed by a vet and has been returned to its owner.
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