**Warning story contains graphic images that some viewers may find disturbing**
A Lantana, Florida man is out on $3,000 bail after spending just hours in jail for dragging a dog behind his truck. The incident occurred on the night of October 9, 2022, the Lantana Road between Military Trail and Lawrence Road.
The man, identified by Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office deputies as Lisandro Arellano, 45, is charged with aggravated animal cruelty and cruelty to animals.
A shocking and brutal act of betrayal
Blanco, a white French bulldog, is said to have been entrusted to Arellano by a family member. Instead of acting as his caretaker, Arellano opted to tie Blanco’s leash to his truck and cruelly drag her by the neck.
The abuse only ended when Arellano was pulled over by another motorist who witnessed the incident. At first, the witness believed it was an honest mistake and that the driver simply forgot that he had a dog tied to his bumper. However, when he confronted the motorist, Arellano stopped the vehicle, picked Blanco up and roughly threw her onto the bed of the truck before speeding out.
The quick-thinking motorist snapped a photo of Arellano’s license plate before calling 911.
depraved indifference
Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office he said Arellano did not seek veterinary care on Blanco’s behalf, but instead left her in pain for days.
The dog is now in the care of Palm Beach County Animal Care and Control, where she is being treated for minor scratches and bruises on her legs, chest and belly. Fortunately, she suffered no fractures or internal injuries.
Arellano agreed to be interviewed by detectives and voluntarily turned Blanco over to Animal Care & Control.
What sanctions will Arellano face?
Animal cruelty is a first degree misdemeanor in the state of Florida, which carries a sentence of up to one year in jail and a maximum fine of $5,000. The additional charge of aAggravated animal cruelty is a third-degree felony punishable by up to five years in prison and a maximum fine of $10,000.
Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office expressed their gratitude to the motorist who witnessed and reported the incident, writing on Facebook:
“PBSO thanks the motorist who witnessed this heinous act, took a photo of the suspect’s license plate and provided it to us for further investigation. Blanco is being treated and recovering.”
The motive for Arellano’s egregious cruelty to Blanco remains unclear.
