Thanks to the courage of one concerned citizen, a young puppy who suffered a horrific attack in Long Beach is now safe, healing—and thriving in foster care.
This week, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) announced it would award a $5,000 reward to the tipster who provided crucial information that helped secure the conviction of 28-year-old Alexander Cueva of Westminster. Cueva was caught on video violently abusing his puppy April 21. The disturbing footage, captured by a neighbor’s security camera, shows Cueva hoisting the six to eight-month-old dog by the neck using a leash, slamming her onto the pavement.
“It just takes one kind person to crack a cruelty case. PETA encourages everyone to follow this person’s shining example and never be silent in the face of cruelty to animals,” said Lisa Lange, senior vice president of PETA.
Justice Served
Melinna Alba, who resides next to Cueva’s mother, recognized Cueva in the video and contacted authorities, police tracked him down in the 800 block of Pine Avenue. He was arrested and booked on suspicion of felony intentional cruelty to an animal. Alba was unaware of the reward at the time.
“I’m glad that the dog is safe and doing well,” Alba said. “That’s the most important part.”
On May 7, Cueva pleaded no contest to a felony animal cruelty charge. He was sentenced to three years in state prison and banned from owning or possessing animals for the next ten years—a decision praised by both prosecutors and animal welfare groups. When the attack on his puppy happened, he was already on probation for a 2023 vehicle theft arrest in Pomona, California. He got 16 moths in the Los Angeles County Jail, after which he will serve the three years for animal cruelty.
A New Life for Rue
As for the puppy—now named Rue—her story is taking a far more hopeful turn. She was placed in the care of Long Beach Animal Care Services immediately following the incident. While officials confirmed she had injuries consistent with physical trauma, they also noted she was “energetic, bright, and responsive.”
Rue is now in a foster home, where she is reportedly doing well. According to the Long Beach Animal Care Facility, she is intelligent and is doing well with training, however she is still nervous around new people.
“She is recovering from her injuries, enjoying walks and rolls in the grass, and learning to trust kind people,” PETA shared in a recent update.
Speak Up for Animals
This case serves as a powerful reminder of what can happen when people speak out against cruelty. The tipster’s quick action not only saved Rue’s life, but helped ensure her abuser faced consequences.
Animal advocates say they hope this story inspires others to be vigilant and compassionate. If you see something, say something—because you never know when your voice might be the one that saves a life.
