The Brookhaven Police Department has been recognized by animal rights organization PETA for its swift action in rescuing a young puppy that was allegedly abused during a live broadcast on the streaming platform Twitch.
The department received PETA’s Compassionate Police Department Award following the arrest of a 19-year-old streamer accused of harming a 3-month-old puppy while viewers watched in real time.
Alleged abuse captured on livestream
According to authorities, the incident occurred on Jan. 29 during a Twitch livestream involving rapper and content creator Aspen Easterling, who also goes by the name Aspen Kartier. Viewers reported seeing Easterling strike a crying puppy and lift the small dog by the loose skin on its back, prompting widespread concern and outrage online.
Clips and screenshots from the livestream were later provided to PETA, which contacted law enforcement and urged immediate action to protect the animal.
Police investigation and arrest
Brookhaven police said they reviewed the evidence and obtained a search warrant for Easterling’s residence the following day. Officers executed the search on Jan. 30 and took Easterling into custody without incident.
Easterling was charged with animal cruelty. Police also confirmed that the puppy was removed from the home and placed into the care of DeKalb County Animal Services, where it is now safe and receiving appropriate treatment.
Praise from PETA leadership
PETA Founder Ingrid Newkirk commended the officers involved, stressing the seriousness of violence against animals.
“If someone is willing to repeatedly hit a crying puppy on the global stage of a livestream, there’s no telling what might happen when the cameras are off,” Newkirk said in a statement. “PETA is grateful to the Brookhaven Police Department for enforcing the state’s anti-cruelty law and reminds everyone never to be silent if they see or suspect abuse.”
Award and public reminder
As part of the recognition, PETA announced it is sending the Brookhaven Police Department a framed certificate along with vegan chocolates to honor the officers’ actions.
The organization also used the case to remind the public that animals should never be harmed or exploited and encouraged people to report suspected abuse immediately. PETA noted that it offers free Empathy Kits aimed at educating communities, especially young people, about kindness and respect toward animals.
Ongoing case
Court records related to Easterling’s charges were not immediately available, and it remains unclear when the case will next be heard. Authorities have not released additional details about the puppy’s condition, citing privacy and ongoing proceedings.
Police and animal welfare advocates alike say the case highlights the growing role of online platforms in exposing abuse and the importance of quick reporting when disturbing behavior is seen.
