Volusia County man accused of ‘mercilessly beating’ his dog, attacking witnesses

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A Volusia County man is accused of “mercilessly beating” his dog outside of a gas station on Thursday.

Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood said 31-year-old Jose Rivera is his department’s “Scumbag of the Week.”

Chitwood said Rivera was seen by witnesses beating his dog outside of a gas station in Deltona.

When Rivera was confronted, he also attacked the witnesses, deputies said.

Rivera was eventually subdued and arrested.

Deputies said he is charged with felony animal cruelty, resisting an officer, child abuse, and three counts of battery.

Chitwood said the dog was doing fine and was turned over to Deltona Animal Control.

Rivera is in the Volusia County Jail with a $26,000 bond.