A 27-year-old man has been arrested after authorities say he broke into his former West Hollywood apartment earlier this month and brutally killed his ex-roommate’s elderly dog in what detectives are calling a revenge-fueled attack.
Anmol Bhatia, who had previously lived at the Harper Avenue residence before being evicted, was taken into custody on Sunday, Sept. 21, near Wilshire Boulevard and Elm Drive in Beverly Hills. He is now facing multiple felony charges, including burglary, vandalism, and animal cruelty, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.
The disturbing incident happened on Sept. 4 around 11:36 p.m., when Bhatia allegedly forced his way into the apartment wearing a mask. Security cameras inside captured what investigators describe as a “brutal” attack on the victim’s small senior dog, who was wearing a diaper.
Detective David Cusiter with the Sheriff’s Department said in a statement that the man “stomped and kicked this dog, resulting in the dog’s untimely death.” Afterward, Bhatia allegedly stole a backpack containing his former roommate’s wallet and credit cards, damaged a large TV, and fled the scene.
Authorities say the apartment’s elderly resident had taken Bhatia in during a time when he was homeless, but the arrangement soured. The two had a falling out, and Bhatia was asked to leave. Just days later, the violent incident unfolded.
The victim has been left heartbroken by the death of his dog, his beloved companion of eight years. “My victim is elderly, and he’s very close to the dog,” Det. Cusiter said. “He’s very devastated. He’s having a hard time dealing with it.”
After reviewing the security footage, investigators identified Bhatia and shared his photo and description with the public. More than two weeks later, Beverly Hills police officers spotted him, recognized him from the bulletin, and contacted the Sheriff’s Department.
Bhatia was booked into the West Hollywood Sheriff’s Station, where inmate records show he is being held without bail.
In California, animal cruelty that results in an animal’s death can be prosecuted as a felony, with penalties of up to three years in prison and steep fines.
The case has struck a nerve in the West Hollywood community, with many expressing shock over the attack, especially given the dog’s age and condition. On social media, commenters noted that the dog appeared to recognize Bhatia and did not bark, suggesting it trusted him, making the betrayal even more devastating.
The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities are asking anyone with information to contact the West Hollywood Sheriff’s Station at (310) 855-8850.
