Man to face court charged with animal cruelty

A 32-year-old man will face court today after allegedly attacking a dog yesterday (Sunday, 4 January 2026).

About 12.00pm yesterday, police were called to a residence in Melba, where a man is alleged to have kicked and punched the dog in the face and back before attempting to pour petrol on the dog.

A short time later police located the man in Evatt. Whilst placing the man under arrest he allegedly became agitated, pulling away from police and kicking himself off the back of the police transport vehicle.

The man, who is on bail and subject to a good behaviour order, has faced the ACT Magistrates court today (Monday, 5 January 2026) charged with cruelty to animals and obstruct/resist territory public official.