Los Angeles man allegedly beats his dog with metal chain leash

A 40-year-old man faces an animal cruelty charge for allegedly beating his dog with a metal chain leash inside a downtown Los Angeles apartment building last month. 

Security cameras inside the complex captured Donald Jeffes, 40, allegedly carrying his American Micro Bully by the collar while whipping his dog with the pet's metal chain leash on March 18, according to the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office. 

"The alleged abuse captured on videos in this case is not just deplorable — it's criminal," District Attorney Nathan Hochman said. ""In Los Angeles County, we treat animal cruelty as a serious offense that will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. Our message is simple: If you abuse animals, you will face real consequences."

Jeffes pleaded not guilty during his arraignment on April 18. The court released him with electronic monitoring hardware until his next court appearance scheduled for May 1. He was also barred from having any animals and ordered to stay away from the person who reported him, according to the district attorney. 

If convicted as charged, he faces a maximum of three years in prison.