Man Accused Of Beating Puppy In Somerville

SOMERVILLE, MA — An Everett man was arraigned Thursday on multiple charges, including animal cruelty, stemming from a reported attack on his ex-girlfriend's puppy in Somerville. Jamal Escobar, 25, is accused of beating the 3-month-old pit bull while destroying his ex-girlfriend's apartment.

According to the Somerville Journal, Escobar's ex-girlfriend had asked him to leave and return her keys April 14. She called police after receiving a text indicating Escobar may have damaged her apartment, the Journal reported.

Her window shades were slashed, bleach was poured on her clothing and her power cords had been cut, according to police. The woman told police she believed Escobar had also hurt her dog, saying she was in the shower and heard what sounded like the dog being struck and then crying.

The dog had been limping since then. The bones in its right leg are broken and its ligaments are damaged, according to WHDH. Everett Animal Control Officer Stacia Gorgone, who is caring for the dog, told the network a veterinarian will determine if the dog's leg needs to be amputated.