A couple weeks back, witnesses report that a small dog hopped out of a minivan on East First Street in Los Angeles. The driver then got out himself, pursued and captured the dog, then proceeded to punch it and slam it against the sidewalk until it died. One of the witnesses took a picture of the minivan, but important identifying information, such as the license plate number, was obscured by a bicycle rack.

Police are currently seeking the suspect, described as a white male between 50 and 60 years old, weighing ~280 lbs and having a height of about 6’2″. The minivan he was seen driving is described as a silver or gray 1996 to 2000 Dodge Caravan. The only distinct identifying feature is an off-color rear bumper.

The suspect is alleged to have violated California Penal Code 597 PC, California’s animal abuse and cruelty law. The law makes it illegal to kill, physically harm, abuse, or overwork any animal. The definition may seem broad, but it was written that way on purpose. Animals, being unable to defend themselves, often require a broader set of criteria regarding what it means to abuse them. Some things that 597 PC covers probably seems obvious. Dog fighting, cock fighting, hitting or kicking an animal, etc. – all of these are made illegal under Penal Code 597. However, so is leaving an animal unattended in a vehicle.

597 PC is a “wobbler,” and can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the extent of the alleged abuse as well as the defendant’s prior criminal record. Misdemeanor convictions carry the possible sentence of up to 1-year in county jail and a fine of up to $20,000. Felony convictions carry the possible sentence of up to 3-years in California state prison and a fine of up to $20,000.

Investigators are concerned about bringing the suspect in the above case to justice not for the sake of the animal he killed, but because of the nature of the crime. The brutal and seemingly unprovoked act of violence would indicate to some that the suspect is unstable and capable of committing additional acts of violence if left at large.

 

Robin Sandoval

Robin Sandoval

Robin Sandoval is a California Licensed Bail Bondsman and owner of SCV Bail Bonds. Robin writes blogs and articles to help increase community awareness of the bail industry. If you have questions or want to suggest a topic, email robin@scvbailbonds.com, visit www.scvbailbonds.com or call 661-299-2245.
Robin Sandoval
Robin Sandoval
Robin Sandoval

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