Petaluma Woman, 48, Arrested for Animal Cruelty and Resisting Officers

Petaluma, CA – Irma Suarez Lopez, 48, was arrested on charges of animal cruelty and resisting arrest after allegedly abusing a dog and taking it from its owner without permission. The incident, which occurred on September 9, involved Lopez reportedly hitting the dog, violently swinging it by its legs, and later squeezing it with "significant force" in the presence of police officers.

According to the Petaluma Police Department, dispatchers received a call around 11:21 a.m. from a community member who witnessed the alleged abuse. Officers responded to the scene and contacted Suarez Lopez, observing her continue to abuse the animal.

When officers attempted to intervene, Suarez Lopez reportedly refused to comply with lawful commands and resisted arrest. She was subsequently taken into custody and booked into the Sonoma County Jail.

Further investigation revealed that Suarez Lopez had taken the dog from its owner without permission prior to the reported abuse. The animal was placed into the care of Animal Control following the arrest.

The Petaluma Police Department expressed gratitude to the community member who reported the activity, stating it allowed officers to intervene quickly and protect the animal. The incident highlights the importance of public vigilance in reporting suspected animal abuse.