SPARTANBURG COUNTY, S.C. (WSPA) – A man was arrested after a witness saw him punch his dog, according to the Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies said they were flagged down by a woman who saw a man grab her dog by the leash and begin punching her.

Deputies located the suspect on Highway 357 near Hammett Store Road. The suspect was identified as 47-year-old Michael Jason Hart.

Hart told deputies he had a gun in his pocket but was not allowed to have one due to previous charges. Deputies said Hart told them “but he’s not shooting.”

Hart was previously convicted in 2001 of manufacture, distribution and possession with intent to distribute. He was also charged with criminal sexual conduct in 2002.

Spartanburg County Animal Control arrived and took over the investigation into animal cruelty. Hart was arrested and transported to the Spartanburg County Detention Center.

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