Viral animal abuse suspect arrested; dog is ‘bright, alert and responsive,’ officials say

The day after a video showing a dog being violently abused went viral, authorities announced the suspect captured via surveillance camera has been arrested and that the dog is “in good hands.”

Video captured early Monday morning showing the abuse in an alley near 12th Street and Long Beach Boulevard quickly circulated the internet, drawing outrage from people across the country. Tuesday night, police announced the suspect was arrested.

Around 8:30 p.m., officers located the suspect, identified as Alexander Cueva, a 28-year-old resident of Long Beach, in the 800 block of Pine Ave., according the LBPD. He was booked at Long Beach City Jail on felony intentional cruelty to an animal.

Cueva also had an outstanding No Bail warrant and remains in custody, the department added.

“This type of animal cruelty has no place in our community,” police Chief Wally Hebeish said in a statement Tuesday. “We remain committed to ensuring those who harm others — especially the most vulnerable — are held accountable. We recognize the deep concern this incident caused throughout our community and appreciate the public’s assistance in sharing critical information.”

Melanie Wagner, bureau manager of Long Beach Animal Care Services, told the Watchdog Tuesday night that she was on site when the man was arrested and the dog was taken into custody.

“[I’m] happy to report that the pup was bright, alert and responsive, albeit a bit scared,” Wagner said.

The female dog was taken to an emergency veterinary clinic by an animal control officer, Wagner said. The dog was placed under medical evaluation and more info on her condition is expected in the coming days, she added.

“We are … relieved that the dog can rest easy in good hands now,” Wagner said.