Skateboarder Allegedly Abuses Five-Month-Old Puppy in Shocking Incident Caught on Video, Sparks Community Outrage

A five-month-old puppy in Long Beach, California, is reportedly on the mend after enduring what some observers have called a shocking act of abuse. The alleged incident involves a male suspect on a skateboard who was apparently caught on surveillance video violently slamming the puppy to the ground. The footage, which has circulated widely on social media, has sparked outrage across the local community and beyond.

The video shows the suspect, identified as 28-year-old Alexander Cueva, lifting the small dog over his shoulder before forcefully throwing it down onto the pavement. Following this apparent act of cruelty, the man reportedly dragged the puppy away by its leash, raising immediate concerns regarding the animal’s safety and welfare.

Melanie Wagner, the bureau manager of the Long Beach Animal Care Center, confirmed that the puppy was taken into custody following the incident. “She came into our custody last night. She was transported to our veterinary hospital to provide care and to just do an overall evaluation,” Wagner stated. According to reports, the puppy is now alert, responsive, and brimming with energy, showing signs of resilience despite her ordeal.

Dina Michelle, founder of Wild Branch Rescue, expressed deep concern about the actions depicted in the video. “You just can’t imagine that somebody can do that to a defenseless animal,” she lamented, highlighting the emotional toll such incidents can have on both the animal community and local residents.

In response to the distressing footage, community members rallied together, with many attending an event organized to raise awareness and seek support for the puppy. “There were probably 20 people there,” Michelle noted, emphasizing the strong sense of solidarity among animal advocates in the area.

Prompt action from the Long Beach Police Department led to Cueva’s arrest for intentional cruelty to an animal. Wagner praised the police for their swift response, stating, “I just want to give a huge kudos to our Long Beach Police Department.” The Law enforcement’s efforts seem to reflect a broader commitment to protecting vulnerable animals in the community.

Fortunately, Long Beach Animal Care Services reported that the shepherd-Malinois puppy sustained only minor injuries and is expected to make a complete recovery. Wagner expressed relief that the puppy is now safe and has a bright future ahead of her. “I’m just incredibly relieved that she is with us, that she is safe and has a happy and loving future,” she added.

The incident has ignited an outpouring of support from community members who are eager to ensure the puppy finds a loving home. Local resident Rene Bieloh mentioned her visit to check on the puppy’s condition and expressed her hope that someone will adopt her after her recovery.

As the investigation continues, Long Beach Animal Care Services has indicated that the puppy will be placed into a foster family once she is fully rehabilitated. The community’s response illustrates a collective commitment to justice for animals and a desire to prevent such incidents in the future, reflecting a growing awareness around animal rights and welfare.