A California man who legally changed his name to Sexy Vegan has been accused of sexually assaulting his dog and posting a video of the obscene act on social media.

The 37-year-old suspect - born Hansel Marion DeBartolo III - was arrested on Thursday after detectives discovered the video of him 'performing an act of bestiality' on a pit bull on September 5, according to the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff's office.

Two dogs were removed from Vegan's home in Newhall by the Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control when detectives served a search and arrest warrant.

Vegan pleaded not guilty to two misdemeanor charges, one count for sexual assault on an animal and one count for posting obscene matter.

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A California man who legally changed his name to Sexy Vegan has been accused of sexually assaulting his dog and posting a video of the obscene act on social media. Vegan - who was born Hansel Marion DeBartolo III - made headlines in October 2017 when he appeared on an episode of the Dr Phil Show entitled: 'My Brother Changed His Name to "Sexy Vegan," Wears Speedos in Public and is Spending My Mom's $11 Million Inheritance'

The 37-year-old suspect was arrested Thursday after detectives discovered the video of him 'performing an act of bestiality' on a pit bull. Vegan is pictured with his pet pit bull on Dr Phil

A scantily-clad Vegan is seen walking his pit bull in Los Angeles in March of this year

Police said Vegan was on probation for an unrelated charge outside the Santa Clarita area at the time of his arrest.

He is being held in police custody on $35,000 bail and is due to appear back in court on October 10. He faces up to a year in prison if found guilty.

The suspect - whose chosen name is tattooed on his face - allegedly told arresting officers that his occupation was '2020 presidential candidate', but there is no record of him having filed with the Federal Election Committee.

Vegan was kicked off his first episode of Dr Phil for using obscene language. He returned several months later and apologized for his behavior

During the October 2017 Dr Phil episode, Vegan's family described his penchant for dressing in skimpy outfits and dancing in inappropriate situations

Vegan made headlines in October 2017 when he appeared on an episode of the Dr Phil Show entitled: 'My Brother Changed His Name to "Sexy Vegan," Wears Speedos in Public and is Spending My Mom's $11 Million Inheritance.'

After his family lamented his unusual behavior - including a penchant for wearing skimpy outfits, dancing at inappropriate moments and carrying a full-length mirror around with him - Vegan was booted off the show for using excessive profanity.

Dr Phil told the guest: 'Don't let the door hit you in the ass' as he moonwalked off set.

The host apologized for Vegan's 'childish and immature behavior'.

Vegan returned to the show in March 2018 and offered an apology.