A disturbing video showing a dog being dragged by a motorized wheelchair has lead to the arrest of the dog’s owner in Texas.
Melissa Torrez was driving in her Mission neighborhood when she saw a man dragging his German Shepherd down a sidewalk.
“I’m out of my car yelling at him, asking him: ‘What are you doing? What’s wrong with you?’ ” she told KGBT-TV. “And he just keeps going, telling me to mind my own business – it’s his dog, he can do whatever he wants.”
When she threatened to call police the man yelled back “Call the, it’s my dog”. The man dragged the dog for two blocks, according to Torrez.
Mission Police Department investigated the incident after Torrez contacted them and posted the video to social media. 15 hours later police arrested 59-year-old Mario Cardona. Police were also prompted to act quickly by the hundreds of calls they received from concerned citizens.
Cardona was arrested and has been charged with animal cruelty. According to KGBT-TV, Cardona has an arrest record dating back to 1993 in Hidalgo County.
The female German Shepherd was taken into Animal Control’s custody and is doing well.
I’m glad Torrez spoke up, and didn’t let this act of cruelty go unnoticed! It’s vital to note that it was her brave actions in not looking away, as well as the phone calls from a large number of people in the community, that made a difference.
Please share this important lesson with your friends and family.
Story Update:
The German Shepherd who was dragged by her leash has found a new, loving home at a Catholic church. The German Shepherd referred to as G2 was court ordered to be removed from her home and put up for adoption thanks to Torrez’ video.
Shortly after, G2, who is now called Senesa, was adopted by Father Roy Snipes of Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Mission. Father Roy is known for rescuing dogs and says he plans to “fatten her up”, as G2 is pretty skinny but otherwise in good health.
She is making friends with Father Roy’s other dog and has a bright future ahead thanks to Torrez taking action!
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