TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — A Florida man was arrested over the weekend after deputies said he threw a 3-year-old Chihuahua off a balcony “like a football,” leaving the dog with several broken bones.

On Sunday, detectives with the Lee County Sheriff’s Office were called to the Blue Pearl Animal Hospital regarding an injured dog.

While at the hospital, detectives learned that a man dropped off the hurt Chihuahua named “Raven” and said a friend had thrown the pet off a balcony “like a football.”

The man then proceeded to get into an argument with the veterinarian before leaving the hospital and his dog behind, the sheriff’s office said .

Raven was left with multiple fractures, including a broken leg and a broken mandible, but is expected to make a full recovery.

Detectives were able to locate Raven’s owner who led them to the suspect, 30-year-old Dalton Chad Sousa.

Sousa was arrested on Monday and charged with aggravated animal cruelty.

“It is always disappointing to learn of an innocent animal abused by an owner they trust. I will continue to do my part to stand up for those who cannot protect themselves,” Lee County Sheriff Carmine Marceno said. “Violent and abusive behavior towards an animal will NOT be tolerated in Lee County. This suspect will now pay the price for this disgusting crime.”

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