A former professional footballer has been arrested after allegedly dangling a dog by its legs from the balcony of his apartment.
Héctor Alejandro Rosales Bonilla, 64, was detained after footage of the disturbing incident was shared online.
The video appears to show Rosales Bonilla holding the small dog by its legs over the edge of a balcony.
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The animal can be heard crying as it is suspended outside the apartment, as reported by Need To Know.
The footage sparked complaints on social media, prompting police to intervene.
El Salvador’s National Civil Police confirmed Rosales Bonilla had been captured Wednesday, 21st October and said he would be referred for alleged animal abuse.
In an official statement, the PNC said: “We arrested Héctor Alejandro Rosales Bonilla, 64, who was reported on social media this afternoon after being seen hanging a dog by its legs from the balcony of his apartment.
“He will be referred for animal abuse.
“We will not tolerate this type of behaviour.”
The incident took place at an apartment complex in San Salvador, with local reports identifying it as the Torre del Sol complex on Calle El Mirador.
Police and municipal animal welfare officials attended the property following the complaints.
Two dogs were taken into protective custody during the intervention, according to local reports.
Rosales Bonilla previously played professional football for C.D. Águila in El Salvador’s Primera División during the 1990s, according to reports.
The 64-year-old faces proceedings for alleged animal abuse.
His arrest came after the video circulated online and prompted calls for authorities to intervene.
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