Florida man jailed for punching dog in face, hanging her from leash, officials say

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TREASURE COAST, Fla. (WFLA) — A horrific moment caught on a home security camera landed a Florida man behind bars after he was seen abusing his girlfriend’s dog.

Donald Arthur Stickens III, 24, of Martin County, was seen entering the hallway of an apartment, hanging a 9-year-old Golden Retriever from a leash, before punching the pet in her head and body several times.

Witnesses told the Martin County Sheriff’s Office that this wasn’t the first time he abused the dog.

An investigation began after the video was turned over to authorities and local animal services. Experts said the dog likely endured a compromised airway, due to hanging by the leash, along with blunt force trauma from the six blows to the head.

The dog was seized and taken to the Humane Society of the Treasure Coast. She was since been returned to her owner, Stickens’ girlfriend, who told deputies she is no longer in contact with him.

Stickens was arrested and charged with felony animal cruelty on a $55,000 bond. Deputies said he is also behind bars for drug charges and tampering with evidence charges.

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