Photo: Courtesy of Anaheim PD: Steeler the Dog
Written By: Reagan Ta
An Anaheim man was arrested for animal cruelty after a doorbell camera captured him punching and kicking a dog.
Albert Frank Abad. Jr., 33, turned himself in to Anaheim police around 1:30 AM on Thursday, September 22nd, a few hours after he surrendered the dog to staff at Center Sinai Animal Hospital in Los Angeles. The dog, a black male Labradoodle named Steeler, was recovered by Anaheim police later that morning and placed with Orange County Animal Care.
The viral video, captured by a doorbell camera, showed a man punching and kicking a dog. Anaheim police viewed the video on social media on September 15th and began investigating in order to identify and apprehend the suspect.
A felony arrest warrant for Abad was issued on Wednesday, September 21st. Abad brought the dog to the Los Angeles animal hospital later that evening, and the staff contacted Anaheim police. Abad was arrested for animal cruelty the following morning.
“This investigation highlights Anaheim PD’s commitment to the safety of our community, and enforcement of law. I understand the emotions evoked by such a disturbing video, depicting the abuse of a defenseless animal. I’m proud of our team who worked tirelessly to bring this suspect to justice, and our law enforcement partnerships which made the successful completion of the investigation of this case, possible,” said Anaheim Police Chief Jorge Cisneros.
Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer remarked, “The violence that was inflicted on a defenseless animal is disgusting. Dogs love unconditionally and that love was rewarded not with love but with violence. This behavior is not just offensive; it is criminal. The Anaheim Police Department quickly identified this individual, tracked him down and arrested him and rescued the dog. As a result of excellent police work, the Orange County District Attorney’s Office will prosecute this abuser to the fullest extent of the law and we will send a strong message the abuse of animals will not be tolerated.”
