MANCHESTER – A 63-year-old man has been charged with Animal Cruelty after kicking his dog several times, police said.
Police were called to Cutie Pawtootie Dog Grooming in the Colby Commons Plaza of Manchester on June 1 for a report of animal abuse.
A man, identified as Gary Petosa, 63, of Manchester, was seen by a witness kicking his dog, several times before to dropping him off for a dog grooming appointment.
Police said video footage from several nearby businesses captured Petosa abusing his dog on multiple occasions which included: aggressively yanking on the leash, throwing the dog against the driver’s side of the vehicle and kicking the dog several times.
An investigation substantiated the allegations through the video footage and witness statements. The dog was then examined and it was confirmed to not have sustained any injuries despite the abuse, police said.
As a result, Petosa was charged with animal cruelty.
Anyone with information regarding any investigations are asked to contact the Manchester Township Police Department at 732-657-6111. As a reminder, anonymous tips can be submitted online at manchesterpolicenj.com. Tips may also be submitted through private messages on their social media pages.
