A Woburn man faces animal cruelty charges after allegedly attacking a dog in Burlington. Austin Beliveau Jr., 45, was arrested following an investigation into an incident that happened last week at Mill Pond Reservoir. In a statement by Burlington police obtained by CBS News, Beliveau, who turned himself in on Monday, is accused of assaulting a 69-year-old man's dog during a morning walk.
The altercation occurred on December 5, when Beliveau, who was riding a bicycle with two dogs, reportedly got into a confrontation with another dog as he walked by a 69-year-old man. The police allege that he used his bike to separate the animals, which caused the elderly man to fall. Boston.com reported that Beliveau then went on to beat the man's dog, named Gigi, leading to severe injuries, including a broken jaw and nose. Gigi had to undergo facial reconstruction surgery.
"It was like watching his child get beaten," Gigi's owner told CBS News Boston. The family, while shaken, expressed their gratitude towards the police, media, and veterinary care that helped in the aftermath. "I'm just thankful. The police were great, the vet, and the media; he wouldn't have turned himself in if it wasn't for the media," the owner added. Despite the trauma and the mounting vet bills, the family is relieved to have their dog home.
Beliveau is expected to be arraigned in Woburn District Court, as reported by CBS News Boston. Prior to the arrest, police had been actively searching for the suspect. Local residents had been put on alert following the violent confrontation, a rarity in an area known for scenic tranquility. The suspect had been described as a white man in his early 30s with an athletic build, according to an initial report by Hoodline. With the arrest, the vigilant effort of the community and the diligent work of the police have brought some solace to the victim's family and the broader Burlington area affected by the event.
