Man Charged with Animal Cruelty Tried to Drown Pit Bull on Miami Beach, Police Say
Dramatic Moment Caught on Cellphone Video
A man in Miami Beach has been charged with animal cruelty after he attempted to drown a pit bull on the beach, according to police. The shocking incident was captured on cellphone video, which shows 37-year-old Yerko Mendoza-Patino holding the dog in waist-deep water along the 300 block of the beach, just before 3:30 p.m. on Friday.
Witnesses Intervene to Save the Dog’s Life
As the canine tried to swim away, Mendoza-Patino attempted to drown the animal, prompting onlookers to step in and try to save the pit bull’s life. "Oh, now they’re gonna go fight him," a witness is heard saying in the cellphone video. However, no physical fights broke out, and it didn’t take long for multiple Miami Beach Police officers on all-terrain vehicles to arrive at the scene.
Arrest and Investigation
Once officers responded, the arrest report details that Mendoza-Patino "dragged the dog’s head under water several times as he walked eastbound." The report also states that the dog appeared to be struggling and in distress. Officers took control of the defendant and assisted him to the ground, where he finally released the dog and officers carried it to safety. Mendoza-Patino actively resisted officers by tensing his arms and refusing to release the dog.
Prior Run-in with the Law
This is not Mendoza-Patino’s first run-in with the law. Miami Beach Police said they responded to reports of the suspect allegedly abusing the same dog on Thursday. Mendoza-Patino is being held at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center in West Miami-Dade on a $6,150 bond. He faces a list of charges, including animal cruelty and disorderly conduct.
Conclusion
This shocking incident serves as a reminder of the importance of animal welfare and the need to report suspected cases of animal abuse. It is crucial that we work together to protect our furry friends and hold accountable those who harm them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What happened during the incident?
A: Mendoza-Patino attempted to drown the pit bull in the water, and onlookers intervened to try to save the dog’s life. Police responded quickly and took control of the situation.
Q: What charges is Mendoza-Patino facing?
A: He is facing charges of animal cruelty and disorderly conduct, with a total bond amount of $6,150.
Q: Is this Mendoza-Patino’s first run-in with the law?
A: No, this is not Mendoza-Patino’s first run-in with the law. He was previously involved in an incident where the same dog was allegedly abused.
