Man In Viral Social Media Video Arrested For Animal Abuse: Yonkers PD

YONKERS, NY — A disturbing video circulating on social media that appeared to show a man horrendously abusing a puppy has now led to an arrest.

The Yonkers Police Department said they became aware of the video that showed an unknown person throwing a dog into a closed roll-down storefront gate in the 4th Precinct. The department immediately initiated a criminal investigation into the animal abuse case.

Police released security and cell phone footage of the abuse, as well as footage of the rescued relieved puppy happy to be treated with kindness by police. Warning: The footage captures graphic images of animal abuse.

Police officials said 4th Precinct officers coordinated with the Crime Control Strategies Unit and the SPCA of Westchester County’s Humane Law Enforcement Unit to investigate. In just a few hours, investigators were able to both identify and locate the suspect as well as the dog.

The dog, named "Maximus," has been turned over to the custody of the SPCA of Westchester and will be assessed for any injuries or illnesses that require attention, according to police.

"Maximus is a VERY energetic pup at approximately 8-months-old and he was very happy to see our officers today," Yonkers police said in a statement announcing the arrest. "Great work by all involved, especially 4th Precinct Officers Nee and Bellone, Detective Specialist Jackson, and SPCA HLE Director Lungaro and Investigator Pataky."

The suspect is identified as Anthoin McPherson, 29, of Mount Vernon. Officers took the man into custody without incident. He has been charged with a misdemeanor in connection to his actions that were caught in the original video footage, as well as additional abuse towards Maximus that was discovered by officers during the investigation, police said. McPherson has been released with an appearance ticket and will be arraigned at a later date.