DETROIT (WWJ) -- A Detroit man is facing multiple animal cruelty charges after allegedly abusing a pit bull puppy and leaving the young dog outside in a garbage can.
Lenard Maurice Shaw, 29, has been charged with one count of second-degree animals-killing/torturing and one count of abandoning/cruelty to one animal.
If convicted of the second-degree charge, Shaw could spend up to seven years in prison.
Officials allege that Shaw violently beat his blue pit bull puppy on Mar. 1, after the canine broke a pair of his sunglasses. The defendant is also believed to have filmed the abuse.
This video was posted to Facebook by someone connected to the suspect, according to Detroit Police Cpt. Matthew Fulgenzi.
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After the footage circulated on social media, animal rights groups called for action. An investigation by the Detroit Police Department and the Michigan Humane Society led to the man's arrest on Mar. 21.
In addition to beating the dog, Shaw is also accused of putting the puppy in a garbage can outside of his home on Mar. 15.
Fortunately, the canine survived both incidents and is currently in the care of the Michigan Humane Society.
Shaw was arraigned Friday morning in 36th District Court and given a $50,000 cash bond. A bond redetermination hearing is scheduled for March 27, before Judge William McConico.
A Probable Cause Conference in the case is set for March 31.
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