Sterling Man Charged With Animal Cruelty In Puppy Beating Case

STERLING, VA — A Sterling man is facing an animal cruelty charge for allegedly beating a puppy with a chain leash earlier this month, Loudoun County Animal Services said Tuesday. The dog did not sustain "lasting serious bodily injury," according to LCAS.

On May 4, LCAS received a call from a person who reported seeing a husky-type puppy being beaten with a chain leash. LCAS humane law enforcement officers investigated the allegation to find that it had occurred while the dog was in the care of a relative of the owner. The dog was removed from the premises and taken to a veterinarian for treatment.

After authorities viewed video footage of the incident, an arrest warrant was issued for the dog owner’s relative, Vinh Dang, 49. On Saturday, LCAS humane law enforcement officers, in partnership with Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office deputies, arrested Dang, who was then released on a $2,500 bond, with the stipulation that he have no contact with any companion animals.

Dang is scheduled to return to court to face a misdemeanor charge of animal cruelty in August. A conviction of a Class 1 misdemeanor in Virginia carries a maximum penalty of up to a $2,500 fine per count and one year in jail.

LCAS is responsible for enforcing state laws and Loudoun County and town ordinances that pertain to animals. Anyone who wishes to report an animal-related concern should call 703-777-0406 or email animals@loudoun.gov.