A teenage female rapper has been taken into police custody following disturbing allegations of animal abuse that were broadcast live to viewers on the popular streaming platform Twitch. The incident, which has provoked widespread condemnation from animal rights groups and the public alike, centres on Aspen Easterling, a 19-year-old from Brookhaven, Georgia.
Viral Footage Triggers Police Investigation
The Brookhaven Police Department confirmed that their investigation commenced after numerous local residents flagged concerning social media posts circulating online. The footage in question allegedly shows Easterling, who also performs under the rap name Aspen Kartier, striking her three-month-old Maltipoo puppy during a live stream.
In the viral clip, Easterling is seen spotting the small dog and asking, 'How did you get out of the cage?' The subsequent footage, which lasted approximately ten seconds, captured the puppy squealing and yelping in apparent pain while being smacked. The video concluded with Easterling lifting the animal by the nape of its neck and carrying it out of the room, an action that further alarmed viewers.
Swift Police Action and Arrest
Detectives moved quickly to identify the individual involved and confirm her residential address. This information enabled officers to obtain both a search warrant for the property and an arrest warrant for Easterling. Law enforcement officials executed the warrants on Friday evening, arresting the teen rapper without incident at approximately 9:35 PM.
Easterling was formally charged with cruelty to animals and initially taken to the DeKalb County Jail. Police confirmed that the Maltipoo was located at the home and, upon examination, appeared to be in good health. The animal was subsequently taken into care by animal control authorities while the investigation continues.
Outrage and Denial in Aftermath
The animal rights organisation PETA publicly shared the shocking video and issued a strong statement condemning the alleged abuse. 'Aspen Kartier was apparently caught on video striking her puppy as he wailed in fear,' the group wrote on the social media platform X. Their message added unequivocally, 'Anyone who would beat and terrify their dog should never go near one!'
In a follow-up video posted after her arrest, Easterling vehemently denied harming her pet. Holding the puppy up to the camera, she stated, 'I didn't beat the f***ing dog.' She instructed the animal to 'Tell them that you're fine,' before adding, 'You're fine and you're for sale.' During this recording, the dog was heard whimpering while in her grip, as Easterling lamented the temporary removal of her Twitch account.
Platform Consequences and Ongoing Case
Twitch has taken action against Easterling's channel, rendering it temporarily unavailable for violating the platform's community guidelines. The streaming service has a strict policy against content that depicts animal abuse or cruelty.
Jail records indicate that Easterling was released on bond the following day, Saturday. However, the Brookhaven Police Department has emphasised that their investigation into the alleged animal cruelty remains active and ongoing. A key unresolved question is whether the puppy will be permanently removed from Easterling's custody following the criminal charges.
The case has highlighted the powerful role of social media and live streaming in bringing potential offences to light, while also raising serious questions about animal welfare and responsible pet ownership.
