Digital Phablet – Twitch streamer and rapper Aspen Kartier was recently detained on charges of animal cruelty after allegedly striking a puppy during a live broadcast, igniting widespread outrage among her viewers and social media audiences.
Sources report that the individual, whose full name is Aspen Easterling, was taken into custody and transported to DeKalb County Jail following numerous complaints about the viral footage. Investigations revealed that the dog involved was a three-month-old Maltipoo discovered inside Aspen’s residence during a search warrant. Officials noted that the puppy “appeared to be in good health.”
Warning: Graphic footage below:
Aspen Kartier Arrested for Animal Cruelty After Allegedly Assaulting Her Puppy
🚨 Trigger Warning ⚠️ @aspenkartier — I can’t believe this horrible, disgusting, and cruel person… Someone needs to intervene and save that poor puppy!!!! And hold that awful person accountable!!!!! #animalabuse #ASPCA #Peta #Chicagoanimalrescue #ChicagoTwitter #ChicagoX #Chicago
— ITS_KRIA (@Orteza) January 29, 2026
Authorities confirmed that an ongoing investigation is underway. Although Aspen denied abusing the puppy, DeKalb County Animal Control took custody of the animal. As a consequence of the incident, Twitch imposed a ban on Aspen until late March 2026.
Viewers and social media users expressed their horror and distress over the footage, which appeared to show Aspen roughly handling her puppy.
Reactions from nonprofit group PETA included a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), saying, “Following the circulation of an upsetting video allegedly showing Twitch streamer Aspen Kartier mistreating her dog, PETA coordinated with Brookhaven Police to secure an arrest on cruelty charges and ensure the dog’s rescue!”
PETA further emphasized, “Thanks to everyone who spoke out about this case! Never stay silent if you witness abuse.”
Aspen Kartier was detained last night after going viral for improper treatment of her dog 😳 [Link to footage] — clip 🛸 (@clippedszn) January 31, 2026
Authorities have indicated that their investigation is active. While Aspen insists she did not harm the dog, DeKalb County Animal Control retains custody of the puppy. The incident led Twitch to suspend her account until the end of March 2026.
Social media communities quickly condemned the act, describing the video as distressing and inexcusable, emphasizing the importance of protecting vulnerable animals from abuse.
