A Virginia man has been charged with animal cruelty after a video circulated on social media showing him kicking a dog inside a Glastonbury home, the Glastonbury Police Department said.
Michael Gerchy, a fitness influencer with a large social media following, turned himself in to police on Friday on two active arrest warrants: one for cruelty to animals and another for violating a protective order.
Police said they became aware of the video on March 12 and obtained a warrant for Gerchy that same day.
“Investigators immediately initiated an investigation, worked to verify the information, and took swift action to secure the warrant,” police said.
Because Gerchy lives in Lancaster, Virginia, Glastonbury police coordinated with out-of-state law enforcement to locate him. Authorities also worked with animal control officials outside Connecticut to evaluate his dogs, which remain out of state.
The department said the video drew significant global attention, resulting in a high volume of calls and emails that at times overwhelmed dispatch and administrative resources.
Police also addressed rumors circulating online, stating that no member of the Glastonbury Police Department was involved in the incident.
“We take crimes against animals seriously and are committed to investigating them thoroughly and promptly,” police said.
Gerchy was held on a $250,000 bond and appeared in court on Friday.
Source: News – Boston – necn
