A Florida man, identified as Anthony Bellman, 55, has been arrested and charged with aggravated animal cruelty after a shocking incident involving a 16-year-old Shih Tzu named Xyla. Surveillance cameras captured the disturbing act of Bellman tossing a garbage bag into a dumpster behind a Family Dollar store in Lehigh Acres, near Fort Myers. The bag contained the mostly blind dog, who was later found with a rope around her neck.

The discovery of the helpless dog took place on December 14 when an employee at the store noticed movement inside the bag and immediately intervened. Xyla was then rushed to Blue Pearl Pet Hospital by concerned store employees. It was later determined that Xyla's original owners had passed away, and Bellman had adopted her.

According to reports, Bellman had allegedly attempted to strangle the Shih Tzu and break her neck using a belt, instead of taking her to be humanely euthanized as he had claimed to his family. Bellman later stated to detectives that euthanasia would have been "too sad." The exact motive behind this tragic and heartless act remains unclear.

Following an investigation, authorities located Bellman at a nearby residence that matched the description of the vehicle seen in the surveillance footage. The 55-year-old suspect was apprehended while wearing the same clothing as shown in the video. He was subsequently charged with one count of aggravated animal cruelty, a third-degree felony.

Xyla, the resilient Shih Tzu who survived the ordeal, is currently recuperating from her injuries at Lee County Domestic Animal Services. The sheriff's office has pledged to work with the State Attorney's Office to find her a loving home where she will receive the care and compassion she deserves.

Sheriff Carmine Marceno addressed the media in a press conference, emphasizing the importance of holding individuals accountable for heinous acts against innocent animals. He announced that Bellman would be added to Lee County's animal abuser registry, a recently-approved initiative to dissuade potential pet adopters from allowing known abusers to care for animals.

If convicted, Bellman could face up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. The preliminary hearing in his case is scheduled for January 16. Meanwhile, advocates for animal welfare hope that this incident will serve as a reminder of the importance of reporting animal cruelty and urging legislators to strengthen laws protecting animals from such acts of violence.