Calif. man could get life in prison for allegedly killing Chihuahua

(CBS/KCBS/AP) GILROY, Calif.  - A Northern California man could go to jail for life for allegedly killing a Chihuahua thanks to the state's "three strikes law."

Bud Wally Ruiz was charged Wednesday with two felony counts of cruelty to animals after reportedly throwing the 6-week-old dog across the room during an argument with his wife. In addition, Ruiz is suspected of assaulting his wife before fleeing and was charged with a misdemeanor count of spousal battery.

Ruiz already has four 'assault with a deadly weapon' convictions on his record, and under California law faces a mandatory sentence of 25 years to life if found guilty.

Marcella Ruiz claims her husband did not mean to hurt the animal, but was throwing it in her direction after she objected to him taking the dog with him as he left.

Ruiz is scheduled to plead guilty to the charges on Tuesday, reports CBS station KCBS.