The weekend, police officers responded to the Recreation Center for an animal abuse in progress, according to the Fountain Valley Police Department.
A concerned citizen called to report a male kicking and stomping on a German Shepherd who appeared to be in distress.
The male suspect was quickly located and detained by responding officers, and he was ultimately arrested for felony animal abuse.
The dog was transported by Orange County Animal Control to be evaluated and treated.
This is “see something, say something” in action. The FVPD commends the citizen who called to report this incident and for being the voice for the voiceless
Legal Penalties Faced by the Suspect
The man arrested by the Fountain Valley Police Department at the Recreation Center on March 31, 2026, faces a charge of felony animal abuse. Under California Penal Code § 597, this charge is a “wobbler,” meaning it can be prosecuted as either a misdemeanor or a felony based on the severity of the act and the suspect’s criminal history.
Because he was arrested for the felony version, he faces the following potential penalties if convicted:
- Imprisonment: A sentence of 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years in California state prison.
- Fines: A maximum fine of up to $20,000.
- Animal Ownership Ban: A mandatory 10-year ban on owning, possessing, or living with any animal.
- Financial Restitution: The court may order him to pay all costs for the impoundment, housing, and veterinary treatment of the German Shepherd.
- Probation Conditions: If granted probation, he may face unannounced home inspections, mandatory counseling (such as anger management), and a prohibition on owning animals.
- Firearm Restriction: A felony conviction results in a lifetime prohibition on owning or possessing firearms in California.
