Watch CBS News

Menifee Man Accused Of Beating Neighbor's Chihuahua To Death With Golf Club

MENIFEE (CBS/AP) —  A 6-pound Chihuahua died of severe internal injuries after being struck by a golf club by a neighbor.

The Chihuahua, named Lily, and a poodle mix got loose from their owner's property in the 28100 block of Summitrose Drive in Menifee and roamed into a cul de sac, Riverside County sheriff's Sergio Rodriguez said.

Larry Edward Jaurequi, who lives nearby, took a golf club with him and walked toward the dogs, Rodriguez said. And with no reason or cause, he "swung the club against the Chihuahua as if driving a golf ball off its tee."

"The force of the swing sent the animal flying through the air," Rodriguez said. "The suspect was preparing for a second swing when he was stopped by people that just witnessed his acts."

Sheriff's Cpl. Courtney Donowho says Lily died of a lacerated liver, brain damage and a leg fracture.

Jarequi, 58, of Menifee, was booked Thursday for investigation of felony animal cruelty.

Jarequi posted $5,000 bail Friday and is due in court on March 22. His phone number is not listed.

The poodle mix was uninjured.

(TM and © Copyright 2012 CBS Local Media, a division of CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2012 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.