Austin Man Charged After Videos Show Dog Abuse on Apartment Balcony

AUSTIN, Texas – A 39-year-old man was arrested Thursday, February 12, 2026, and charged with Cruelty to Animals, a third-degree felony, following an investigation into alleged abuse of a dog at a downtown Austin apartment complex.

Austin Police Department officers responded at 3:56 p.m. February 8 to an Animal Urgent call at the SEVEN Apartments, located at 615 West 7th Street. Police received multiple reports, including a resident complaint and public tips, regarding videos circulating on social media that appeared to show a dog being physically abused on an apartment balcony.

A complainant provided officers with videos recorded from a nearby unit that allegedly showed a male restraining a dog against a balcony railing and striking the animal.

APD’s Animal Cruelty Unit, working with the Animal Protection team at Austin Animal Services, conducted an investigation that included reviewing video evidence, interviewing witnesses and evaluating the dog’s condition. Authorities said the totality of the evidence established probable cause for the arrest of John Kaschak.

The dog, named Boone, was placed with Austin Animal Services on February 8 for safekeeping and will remain there pending the outcome of the case. Officials said Boone is generally in good health and is receiving care but will not be available for adoption or foster placement until the case concludes.

Police credited community members whose information and evidence were instrumental in the investigation.