The man who authorities say was caught on video slammed the puppy into the ground with her leash, she lay motionless and kicked her, dragged her out in an attack in Long Beach, and was sentenced to three years in state prison on Wednesday, causing a felony animal cruelty charges.
Alexander Cueva, 28, of Westminster, was also banned from possessing animals for 10 years, according to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office.
With his neck around his neck on the beginning of April 21, Queva strangled a 6-8 month German Shepherd Mix, Inara, slammed it into the pavement and kicked it in the face, pausing the dog again, riding on a skateboard and dragging it out of the frame.
The Long Beach Police Department said the attack, which was filmed on video footage that was widely shared on social media, occurred at 235 E. 12th St. near Anaheim Street.
Police say that before 8:30pm on April 22, detectives placed the Queva in the 800 block of Pine Avenue and took him to city prison, where he was booked on suspicion of deliberate cruelty of a felony against an animal.
Queva has remained behind the bar since his arrest.
The puppy was placed in Long Beach Animal Care Services’ care, and last month the animal issued a statement saying that it was “now energetic, bright and responsive.”
“She suffered several injuries consistent with her alleged trauma, but she is expected to heal with time and care,” according to the Animal Care Services Agency. “She is placed in a foster home for recovery. ”
The agency noted that there have been reports of possible fraud through GoFundMe pages by people who claim that the dog is caring for them. Animal care workers said anyone who wishes to donate can do so through the agency’s website.
“This felony conviction and prison sentence sends an important message that animal cruelty is not tolerated in our community,” District Attorney Nathan Hochman said in a statement. He added that his office is “unwavering with its commitment to protecting the most vulnerable people, including vulnerable animals.”
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