NORTHERN MICHIGAN - A Cheboygan man who was arrested in November after killing a puppy has been sentenced to 20 months to eight years behind bars.

Thomas Distasio, 45, was arrested on Nov. 6 and charged with animal cruelty after a witness reported that he threw his 4-month-old beagle, Maggie, across the room. It was also reported that Distasio threw the dog into a freezer.

The witness told police that Distasio stomped on and kicked the dog.

The dog had gotten into Distasio's trash.

Another witness said that there was a 3-year-old in the house at the time who witnessed the killing.

After the incident, Maggie was rushed to an area veterinarian for treatment, but later died from her injuries.

Distasio will also have to pay $583 in restitution.