A 64-year-old man was arrested and charged with animal cruelty after El Paso County Sheriff’s Office deputies observed a puppy fall from his driving pickup truck and hit the road.
On Saturday, October 3, deputies launched an animal cruelty investigation after witnessing a German shepherd puppy fall out of a pickup truck.
Deputies observed the puppy being transported unsecured in the bed of a pickup truck traveling northbound on the 400 block of South Darrington Road near Horizon City.
The dog fell from the truck bed while the vehicle was moving, colliding with the pavement and concrete walkway. According to the Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded swiftly to assist the injured dog, which had evident injuries and symptoms of discomfort after falling.
Following the investigation, the driver, 64-year-old Victor Martinez, was detained and charged with cruelty to non-livestock animals. Martinez was placed into the El Paso County Downtown Detention Facility with a bond of $6,000.
“Animals depend on us for their safety and protection, and that responsibility should never be taken lightly,” Oscar Ugarte stated. “They are unable to advocate for themselves or protect themselves in harmful situations. When our deputies witness an animal in danger, we will intervene and hold those involved accountable.”
The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office advises pet owners to take the necessary measures when moving animals. Pets should be safely secured and transported in a way that protects them from harm or unnecessary suffering.
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