- Luis J. Cobos, 36, was arrested for throwing rocks at two dogs in his backyard.
- The incident was filmed by contractors and the video went viral on social media.
- Animal Control rescued four dogs from the property, two of which showed signs of abuse.
- The dogs belong to Cobos’ roommate and are not up for adoption.
- Authorities urge the public to report any suspected animal abuse to the police or animal control.
Luis J. Cobos, 36, was caught on camera throwing rocks at two dogs in the backyard of his residence Feb. 19. He was arrested the same day, and both dogs were transported to a local veterinary clinic for evaluation.
Cobos was charged with two felony counts of extreme cruelty to animals and was booked into the Doña Ana County Detention Center. He is being held on a $2,500 surety bond.
At about 10:15 a.m. Feb. 19, Animal Control was dispatched to the report of suspected animal abuse on the 1300 block of Mission Nueva Drive. Contractors working nearby witnessed and recorded video of Cobos throwing rocks at what appeared to be at least one dog in the residence’s backyard, according to a news release from the City of Las Cruces.
The video was later posted to social media, where it garnered more than 70,000 views as of 4 p.m. Friday.
Las Cruces police investigators obtained a warrant to search the property and take custody of the dogs Feb. 19. While executing the warrant, investigators found four dogs on the property. Detectives, with Animal Control’s assistance, transported two basset hounds to a veterinary clinic for evaluation. One of the two dogs, an adult male, had visible signs of physical abuse and was provided treatment at the clinic, according to the release.
All four dogs have since been transported to the Mesilla Valley Animal Services Center, where they will temporarily be sheltered until they can be reunited with their owner — a person who lived with Cobos, the release read.
“By all accounts, the owner of the dogs has taken great care of the pets and is distressed by the actions of Cobos,” the release read.
The release read that police encourage individuals passionate about pet welfare to refrain from approaching or retaliating against persons who reside at the home, as only Cobos was involved in the dogs’ mistreatment.
Police and Animal Control encourage anyone who witnesses or suspects animal abuse to call central dispatch at 575-526-0795 or 911 if it’s an emergency.
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