LOS ANGELES (CNS) - An ex-con who allegedly shot and killed his ex- girlfriend's puppy after an argument earlier this month pleaded not guilty Wednesday to charges of animal cruelty and criminal threats.
David Sumlin, 32, was arrested early Monday by Los Angeles police and has remained behind bars since then.
Police said Sumlin allegedly held a pillow over the woman's dog and shot a firearm twice into the pillow on Jan. 2, striking the 4-month-old puppy.
The dog was taken to a local animal shelter, where it died, according to police.
The criminal complaint filed by the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office alleges that he has prior convictions for a dozen counts dating back to 2009.
He is due back in court Jan. 30 for a hearing to determine if there is sufficient evidence to require him to stand trial on the two felony counts.
The animal cruelty charge includes an allegation that he personally used a handgun during the attack on the puppy, Kyro.
Sumlin is also charged in a criminal complaint filed in federal court in Los Angeles with being a felon in possession of ammunition. No court date has been set yet in the federal case.
Law enforcement recovered two spent 9mm caliber shell casings from the crime scene, according to the federal complaint, which discusses Sumlin's extensive criminal history that includes multiple felony convictions that prohibit him from possessing firearms and ammunition.
After the puppy's shooting, authorities circulated Sumlin's name and photo, and asked for the public's help in finding him. Police earlier described him as homeless.