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Prosecutors Review Footage Of Alleged Puppy Throwing

NUEVO (CBS) — Riverside County prosecutors are reviewing security video that shows a man allegedly slamming a puppy to the ground, breaking its leg.

The incident, which was caught on tape, occurred on July 6, at Nuevo Water Company.

Investigators say 67-year-old David Hendershot was in the process of paying his bill with his grandson, who was holding the three-month-old Chihuahua.

That's when something appeared to upset Hendershot, who allegedly struck his grandson, said John Welsh of the Riverside County Department of Animal Services.

The video shows the boy letting go of the dog, and when a water company employee handed the dog back to Hendershot, he allegedly threw it to the ground, according to statements from witnesses and video surveillance.

"The puppy could be seen in apparent pain, and unable to stand completely," said animal services officer Abel Buenrostro, who was called to the scene.

Hendershot has signed the dog over to animal services, who say it suffered torn ligaments and a broken hind leg.

The puppy is recovering at Mary S. Roberts Pet Adoption Center.

"Mr. Hendershot has not been arrested," Welsh said. "If charges are filed, Mr. Hendershot will receive a letter mandating a court appearance. He could face other charges related to the assault."

(©2011 CBS Local Media, a division of CBS Radio Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. Wire services contributed to this report.)

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