Police charge El Paso man accused of kicking puppy

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- El Paso police arrested and charged a man with animal cruelty (torture), according to a news release sent Wednesday.

Preliminary investigation revealed that on July 8, 73-year-old Carlos Jose Fernandez allegedly dragged and kicked a puppy on hot pavement. Witnesses alleged he pulled the dog's collar -- blocking its airway -- and placed it inside a shopping bag.

Fernandez gave up ownership the puppy, police said. A veterinary exam confirmed the puppy had four burnt paws and a fractured rib.

El Paso Animal Services took the puppy for continued care.

Police arrested Fernandez and booked him into the El Paso County Detention Facility on two counts of animal cruelty. He also received a citation for an animal-related offense involving unlawful possession of a dog.

His bond totaled $50,000, police said.