Police charge El Paso man accused of kicking puppy

Gabrielle Lopez

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) — El Paso police arrested and charged a man with animal cruelty (torture), according to a news release sent Wednesday.

Preliminary investigation revealed that on July 8, 73-year-old Carlos Jose Fernandez allegedly dragged and kicked a puppy on hot pavement. Witnesses alleged he pulled the dog’s collar — blocking its airway — and placed it inside a shopping bag.

Fernandez gave up ownership the puppy, police said. A veterinary exam confirmed the puppy had four burnt paws and a fractured rib.

El Paso Animal Services took the puppy for continued care.

Courtesy: EPPD

Courtesy: EPPD

Police arrested Fernandez and booked him into the El Paso County Detention Facility on two counts of animal cruelty. He also received a citation for an animal-related offense involving unlawful possession of a dog.

His bond totaled $50,000, police said.

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