Man to Stand Trial in Dog Beating Case

A Glendale courtroom filled with animal-rights advocates erupted in applause Tuesday when a 26-year-old man was ordered to stand trial for beating his cocker spaniel puppy on the balcony of his apartment.

Muncipal Court Commissioner Donna Bracke had warned the spectators, many wearing Doris Day Pet Foundation T-shirts, against emotional outbursts.

But after Bracke ordered Brendan Sheen to face a felony animal cruelty charge, about 60 people stood up and cheered. About 40 others waiting outside the courtroom also applauded.

The animal-rights advocates showed concern when Deputy Public Defender Jonathan Petrak asked Bracke to reduce the charge to a misdemeanor. But the commissioner refused, citing the severity of the dog’s injuries, including three broken ribs and a broken pelvis.

Sheen was arrested June 30 after neighbors told Glendale police that they heard a dog yelping, then saw its owner kick and jump on the 8-month-old puppy named Baby. Sheen told police he was having trouble house-breaking the dog and kicked Baby after she bit his thumb.

The Day foundation arranged for Baby’s treatment, and veterinarian Robert Collett, who is caring for the dog, testified that it is expected to recover fully. Publicity about the puppy has generated more than $15,000 in donations to the animal aid group, founded by the actress.

During his plea for a reduction in the charge, Petrak said Sheen has lost his job and apartment and has been “held up to public ridicule” because of the animal cruelty case. After the hearing, Sheen was led out through a back door to avoid a confrontation with the animal advocates.

He was scheduled to appear in Pasadena Superior Court on Sept. 4.