PHOENIX — A 19-year-old man has been arrested on animal cruelty charges after police say he admitted to abusing his emotional support dog.
According to Phoenix police, on Sunday, Nezter Villagomez tried to hang his pug "Miso" by his collar and leash with all four legs off the ground. He told officers this happened on two different occasions for several seconds each time.
Police say Villagomez told officers he tried to harm the dog on purpose.
Veterinarians say Miso has two broken ribs, a broken pelvis, tooth and other injuries. Bloodwork revealed Miso has been a victim of chronic abuse.
Authorities say Villagomez sent pictures of the abuse to another person. He was arrested and booked into jail for animal cruelty, A.R.S. 13-910A9, which as of August 2019 is now a Class 5 Felony.
Villagomez, a student at Grand Canyon University, has been expelled from the school, officials say.
The university issued the following statement Wednesday:
"GCU Public Safety became aware of an incident involving Netzer Villagomez and immediately took possession of his emotional support animal to ensure its safety. The animal was turned over to the Arizona Humane Society and Mr. Villagomez was removed from campus. Mr. Villagomez has since been expelled from the university following his arrest by the Phoenix Police Department. Phoenix PD is handling any further actions associated with this matter."
Arizona Humane Society officials say Miso will remain in their care indefinitely.
