Pit Bull ‘Forcibly Slammed,' Owner Goes to Jail

A Citrus Park man faces cruelty to animals charges after Hillsborough County deputies say he “deliberately caused repeated infliction of unnecessary pain toward” Spike, his pit bull mix dog.

Christopher Justin Mendez of 14044 Citrus Pointe Drive was arrested July 4 after turning himself into the Hillsborough County Jail. An investigation into Mendez’s treatment of Spike was launched recently after neighbors complained to the sheriff’s office, a media release said.

Investigators determined that between May 4 and June 23, Mendez “intentionally held the dog up by his neck and forcibly slammed it to the concrete floor. During another incident, Mendez threw what appeared to be a rock or a cement block at the dog, causing it to yelp, with the intent to cause the animal pain,” according to the release.

A felony warrant for Mendez’s arrest was issued.

Hillsborough County Animal Services now has custody of Spike and a 10-week-old pit bull puppy named Hennessy. Spike has a hematoma on his head and is receiving medical care, the release said.

Mendez was released from the county jail after posting $5,000 bond. 

According to jail records, he is no stranger to Hillsborough County authorities. Past arrests include such charges as grand theft of a firearm, possession of marijuana and obstructing an officer.