The ASPCA says a man faces a felony charge of aggravated animal cruelty after a Chihuahua died with a fractured skull.
Jerry Melendez of Queens was arrested Friday. If convicted, he could face up to two years in prison and a $2,000 fine.
The ASPCA's Joseph Pentangelo said the 5-year-old family pet was beaten and had to be euthanized.
The brown, tan and white dog, named Spotiye, weighed 8 pounds. The arrest report lists Melendez's weight as 265 pounds.
A necropsy also revealed Spotiye suffered from an eye hemorrhage and blood in his stomach.
The name of Melendez's lawyer was not immediately on record.
Copyright AP - Associated Press
