Man caught on video abusing dog could face 3 years in prison in CA, officials say

A 40-year-old man has been charged after being accused of abusing his dog, California officials said.

Donald Jeffes was seen on video abusing his American micro bully named Rusty in a downtown Los Angeles apartment building, according to an April 21 news release by the District Attorney’s Office.

On March 18, Jeffes was seen beating Rusty with a metal chain leash and carrying him by his collar, prosecutors said.

“The alleged abuse captured on videos in this case is not just deplorable — it’s criminal,” District Attorney Nathan Hochman said in the release. “In Los Angeles County, we treat animal cruelty as a serious offense that will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. Our message is simple: If you abuse animals, you will face real consequences.”

Jeffes pleaded not guilty to a charge of felony animal cruelty and was released with electronic monitoring while waiting for his next court hearing, officials said.

If convicted as charged, Jeffes faces a maximum of three years in state prison.