RIVERSIDE, Calif. — A California man has been charged with felony animal cruelty after authorities say he killed a Chihuahua by teeing off on the 6-pound dog with a golf club.
A spokesman for the Riverside County prosecutor's office says 58-year-old Larry Jaurequi, of Menifee, also faces an enhancement alleging he used a dangerous or deadly weapon.
Jaurequi was arrested Jan. 26 after witnesses reported seeing him strike the dog with a golf club, sending the animal into the air.
The animal belonged to a neighbor and had gotten loose.
Jaurequi's arraignment date has not been set. If convicted, he faces a maximum sentence of four years in prison.
A phone listing under the name Jaurequi in Menifee led to a recorded greeting that wouldn't let callers leave a message.
February 7, 2012 11:40 PM EST | Associated Press