A man was arrested on suspicion of animal cruelty after several people saw him allegedly mistreating his dog at a Turlock park.

The Turlock Police Department was called to Broadway Park at 501 N. Broadway around 4:30 p.m. Wednesday for a report of a man abusing his dog.

Witnesses at the park said the man, identified later as James Dias, was punching the dog and pushing its snout into the water, said Turlock Police spokesperson Sgt. Stephen Webb.

On witness confronted Dias about his behavior and Dias allegedly brandished a knife at him. However, no knife was found in Dias’ possession or in the immediate area, Webb said.

The dog was put into the custody of animal services and did not appear to have any injuries, Webb said.

Dias remains in custody at the Stanislaus County Jail in lieu of a $10,000 bail on a charge of animal cruelty.