EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14\/CBS4) \u2014 El Paso sheriff’s deputies arrest driver after a German Shepherd puppy fell from the bed of a moving pickup truck. <\/p>\n
The driver, identified as 64-year-old Victor Martinez, was arrested, and charged with Cruelty to Non-Livestock Animals.<\/p>\n
On Saturday, El Paso County Sheriff’s Office deputies witnessed the puppy fall from the bed of a Chevrolet Silverado traveling northbound in the 400 block of S. Darrington Road.<\/p>\n
Deputies said the puppy was unsecured in the truck bed when it fell and struck the roadway and concrete sidewalk.<\/p>\n
Deputies stopped to help the injured puppy, which showed visible injuries and signs of pain following the fall, according to the sheriff’s office.<\/p>\n
Animals depend on us for their safety and protection, and that responsibility should never be taken lightly,\u201d said Sheriff Oscar Ugarte. \u201cThey cannot speak for themselves or protect themselves from dangerous situations. When our deputies see an animal being put at risk, we will take action and hold those responsible accountable.<\/p>\n
El Paso sheriff’s deputies arrest driver after puppy falls from pickup truck bed (Credit: El Paso County Sheriff’s Office)<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
Martinez was booked into the El Paso County Downtown Detention Facility with a bond set at $6,000.<\/p>\n
The El Paso County Sheriff\u2019s Office reminds pet owners to take appropriate precautions when transporting animals. <\/p>\n
Pets should be properly secured and transported in a manner that protects them from injury or unnecessary suffering. <\/p>\n
The Sheriff\u2019s Office remains committed to investigating animal cruelty and protecting animals throughout El Paso County.<\/p>\n
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