Massachusetts woman accused of punching, kicking, and striking her pet dog with a bottle

A Massachusetts woman is facing charges after police say she beat her dog.

According to police, at about 8:40 p.m. on Tuesday, officers assigned to District A-1 (Downtown) arrested Jasmine Velasquez, 26, of Boston, on animal cruelty charges.

Officers were conducting a walk and talk in the area of the Boston Common when they could hear the noise of a crying dog. Officers were then advised by a passerby that a woman was beating a dog in the area of 131 Tremont Street.

As officers approached the suspect, they observed the suspect kick the dog. Officers were able to quickly separate the suspect from the dog, and moved the dog to a safe location as there was broken glass and unknown liquid on the ground.

Officers spoke to multiple witnesses who all stated that they observed the suspect strike the dog multiple times. Officers were advised that the suspect punched, kicked, and struck the dog with a glass bottle.

Velasquez was placed under arrest and charged with: Animal cruelty, and assault and battery on a police officer. She was arraigned in Boston Municipal Court.

Animal Control responded to District A-1 and took custody of the dog.