DA Files Charges–Man Suspected of Killing Puppy Faces up to 25 Years

The Santa Clara County District Attorney's Office today filed charges against a Gilroy man who is suspected of hurling a puppy against a wall during an argument with his wife and killing the animal.

The incident occurred on Thursday at a home in the 8800 block of Morey Way in Gilroy, according to police Officer Amanda Stanford.

The dog, a 6-week-old Chihuahua, belonged to a woman the suspect, identified as 53-year-old Bud Wally Ruiz, was having an argument with, Stanford said. He is suspected of also assaulting her before fleeing the house, she said.

Ruiz turned himself into police on Monday and was booked into Santa Clara County Jail.

He is facing felony animal cruelty charges and one count of misdemeanor battery.

This is a three strikes case for Ruiz, who has previously been convicted of felony assault with a deadly weapon, according to district attorney's spokeswoman Amy Cornell.

He faces a maximum sentence of 25 years to life, she said.

Ruiz is scheduled to plead to the charges on Tuesday.

By Bay City News