Detroit police arrest man who allegedly shook, abused pit bull puppy over broken sunglasses in video shared on social media

Cpt. Matthew Fulgenzi
Photo credit Detroit Police Department

DETROIT (WWJ) - A man who Detroit police say abused a small puppy after it supposedly broke his sunglasses is in custody after video of the alleged abuse circulated on social media.

The Detroit Police Department said on Tuesday they have made an arrest in the case following an outcry from animal groups and social media users when footage of the man allegedly shaking and abusing the puppy was posted to the web.

As stated by Detroit Dog Resuce, the man also allegedly screams at the dog in the video and blames it for breaking a pair of his expensive glasses.

During the abuse, the animal can be heard crying. Detroit Police Cpt. Matthew Fulgenzi told reporters Tuesday the video was "very troubling" and "horrible to watch."

Officials said the young dog survived the horrific abuse although its condition and any injuries were not immediately released. Fulgenzi noted the video showed the puppy lying motionless on its side.

Fulgenzi said the puppy is alive and has been turned over to the Humane Society as the investigation continues.

The man's name has not been released, though Fulgenzi noted he has had "run-ins" with police in the past. Authorities did not elaborate on those run-ins.

The suspect was identified and arrested Tuesday morning, a day after the video went viral. Fulgenzi said investigators believe the video was filmed a couple weeks ago.

The video was posted to Facebook by someone connected to the suspect, according to Fulgenzi

“The actions are unacceptable. We will not tolerate that in our community," Fulgenzi said.

This is a developing story. Stay tuned to WWJ Newsradio 950 for the latest updates.

Featured Image Photo Credit: Detroit Police Department