WINK news tip leads to arrest of Punta Gorda man accused of punching, killing puppy on video

PUNTA GORDA, Fla. (WINK) — A Punta Gorda man was arrested after being seen on video punching a puppy and continuing abuse until its death, according to a press release from the Charlotte County Sheriff's Office.

A crime tip was received from WINK News on Sept. 13 with a video depicting the man repeatedly and forcefully striking the animal. Deputies later arrested Neil R. Puterbaugh, 53.

After the puppy's death, Puterbaugh disposed of it, according to the Charlotte County Sheriff's Office.

Over the next two days, detectives obtained the video and conducted their investigation, establishing probable cause to arrest Puterbaugh on felony aggravated animal cruelty charges and violation of probation.

Members of the STAR (Strategic Targeted Area Response) Unit located Puterbaugh at his residence at approximately 8 p.m. on Sept. 15. He was taken into custody for the felony charges and transported to the District 4 office for an interview, according to the Charlotte County Sheriff's Office.

Puterbaugh admitted to striking the dog and going too far, according to the press release.

Investigators say several additional videos were obtained from his residence depicting numerous acts of abuse on the puppy. Puterbaugh was transported to the Charlotte County Jail and is being held without bond.