Bradenton Police have accused a man of hanging a three-month-old puppy by the neck and punching it repeatedly, according to an official release.

  • Carleau Mesidor, 39, charged with Aggravated Animal Abuse
  • Police say Mesidor hung, punched puppy because the puppy chewed on a shoe
  • Three dogs on property surrendered, are being medically evaluated

Officials said the puppy's owner, Carleau Mesidor, 39, held the puppy by its neck by using a lanyard. He then punched the puppy in the head several times, according to the release.

The incident occurred Monday, authorities said.

Reportedly, Mesidor inflicted the violence on the puppy because the puppy chewed on one of his shoes.

The puppy, Zoey, a female black mix breed, was brought to a forensic veterinarian for evaluation. The veterinarian reported that Zoey has an orbital fracture and injuries consistent with being held up by the neck and punched.

Three other dogs on the property were voluntarily surrendered to police at the time of the arrest. All three are being evaluated for injuries or other signs of abuse.

Mesidor was charged with Aggravated Animal Abuse, a 3rd degree felony.

Police ask that anyone with any information on this case or a similar one contact Officer Lixa Moyett at 941-932-9309. To provide information while remaining anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-866-634-8477, or visit manateecrimestoppers.com.

Carleau Mesidor (Photo: Bradenton Police)