Hoquiam Police arrested a 33-year-old Hoquiam man after he allegedly punched a 77-year-old man and kicked the man’s dog several times Friday night, according to Hoquiam Police Chief Jeff Myers.

Myers reported an officer was on patrol in the 700 block of Levee Street a little after 11 p.m. when he was flagged down by a male subject. The victim was found down on the sidewalk and told officers he was taking his 11-year-old pug for a walk when he was approached by the younger male, who appeared to be intoxicated. The suspect, who was not known to the victim, made some sort of comment when the dog was barking at him and, without warning, kicked the dog several times before striking the victim in the head.

A witness was about to call 911 when she saw the officer turn down the street. A passerby had heard the man calling for help and had also pulled over to assist just before the officer arrived.

Officers recognized the suspect by the clothing description as they had noticed him earlier in the evening, said Myers. The suspect was located walking in the 800 block of Emerson Avenue where he denied any confrontation with the elderly man and dog. However, the witness positively identified the suspect and he was arrested, said Myers.

The victim was treated at the scene by Hoquiam Fire Department paramedics. It did not appear that he or his dog had sustained any significant injuries. The suspect was booked in the Hoquiam City Jail for assault and animal cruelty.