Suspect in dog abuse video in Long Beach arrested, police say

Los Angeles Times - Apr 23rd, 2025

Long Beach police have arrested a man following a shocking incident of dog abuse that was captured on video and widely shared on social media. The video shows the man violently lifting a dog by its leash and slamming it to the ground in Long Beach. The footage, which sparked outrage, was initially posted by the Animal Hope and Wellness group, urging the public to help identify the man, who was seen with a skateboard. In response, law enforcement swiftly acted, arresting the suspect and ensuring the dog's safety. The police confirmed that the dog is now under the care of Long Beach Animal Care Services, highlighting their commitment to addressing such acts of cruelty.

This incident has underscored the importance of community vigilance and the role of social media in aiding law enforcement efforts. Police Chief Wally Hebeish praised the detectives and officers for their quick action in apprehending the suspect. The case has drawn attention to the broader issue of animal abuse and the community's role in preventing such acts. It also highlights the effectiveness of social media as a tool for raising awareness and facilitating swift justice. The arrest is a reminder of the community's zero-tolerance stance on animal cruelty and the importance of protecting vulnerable animals from harm.

Social Media Long Beach Police Arrest Dog Abuse Animal Hope And Wellness

Story submitted by Fairstory

RATING

6.8

Fair Story

Consider it well-founded

The article effectively reports on a current and disturbing incident of animal abuse, capturing public interest through its timely coverage and emotional impact. It accurately describes the event and subsequent arrest, although it lacks detailed information about the suspect and the investigative process. The article's clarity and neutral tone make it accessible to a broad audience, while its engagement potential is enhanced by the use of social media and community involvement. However, the story could benefit from greater transparency and a more balanced representation of perspectives, particularly from the suspect or legal experts. Overall, the article serves as a compelling piece on a significant issue, though it leaves some questions unanswered regarding the broader implications and context of the incident.

Accuracy

The story accurately reports the arrest of a man in connection with a dog abuse incident, aligning with verified sources that confirm both the arrest and the nature of the abuse captured on video. The location of the incident is generally consistent with other reports, although there is a slight discrepancy in the exact address (200 block vs. 235 E. 12th Street). The article correctly notes that the video was posted on Instagram and mentions the involvement of Animal Hope and Wellness, which is corroborated by the accuracy check. However, the story does not provide details about the suspect or the exact circumstances of the arrest, which are critical for a comprehensive understanding of the event.

Balance

The article primarily focuses on the incident of animal abuse and the subsequent arrest, presenting a one-sided view that emphasizes the cruelty of the act and the swift police action. While it includes a statement from the police chief condemning the act, it lacks perspectives from the suspect or any defense that might provide a more rounded view of the situation. Furthermore, the article does not explore the broader context of animal abuse in the community, which could have added depth to the coverage.

Clarity

The article is generally clear and concise, effectively communicating the main points of the incident and the subsequent arrest. The language is straightforward, and the chronological structure aids in understanding the sequence of events. However, the lack of detailed information about the suspect and the arrest process might leave some readers seeking more comprehensive coverage. Despite these gaps, the article maintains a neutral tone and avoids sensationalism, making it accessible to a broad audience.

Source quality

The article relies on social media posts and statements from the police department, which are credible but limited in scope. The primary source of information is a video posted on Instagram, which, while visually compelling, does not provide a full narrative of the event. The lack of direct quotes from witnesses or experts in animal welfare reduces the depth of source variety and authority. Additionally, the article does not reference any independent investigations or reports that might lend further credibility to its claims.

Transparency

The article lacks transparency in several areas, particularly regarding the identity of the suspect and the details of the arrest. While it provides a clear description of the abuse captured on video, it does not explain the methodology behind the police investigation or how the suspect was identified and apprehended. The absence of this information leaves readers with unanswered questions about the process and the evidence used to make the arrest. Furthermore, the article does not disclose any potential conflicts of interest or biases that might impact the reporting.