POLICE investigating a man in connection with cat deaths in Brighton have handed their “concluded” investigation to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS).

The 52-year-old, who was originally arrested in June, has been re-bailed for the fourth time by officers investigating the death of 25 cats in the city over 18 months.

Sussex Police said today they are now waiting on a decision from the CPS, who examine cases handed to them by the police to see if there is enough evidence to charge a suspect.

Chief Superintendent Nick May, divisional commander for Brighton and Hove, said: “We remain committed to this case, seeking answers as to how these cats died and obtaining justice for their owners.”

The man was originally arrested on June 2 after a cat was found “seriously injured” near Queens Road, Brighton, two days before.

The cat later died of its injuries.

Police investigated the incident and were able to find CCTV footage of the area.

After seeing this, the suspect was arrested on suspicion of “criminal damage and possession of an offensive weapon in a public place”.

He was released on police bail until June 28.

He was then re-bailed until August 21 where he was re-bailed again.

Chief Superintendent Nick May said it was a “complex investigation”.

In September it was revealed his bail had been extended again while officers probe further claims.

The force said he was re-arrested, questioned, and bailed until today.

Sussex Police told The Argus today: “Following the arrest in June of a 52-year-old man in connection with cat deaths in Brighton, a complex investigation has been ongoing.

“This investigation has now reached a conclusion and the file is with the Crown Prosecution Service awaiting its decision.

“All the owners of the cats have been updated by the investigation team. The suspect has been informed that his bail has been extended until after this decision is received.”