Missoula, Mont. (AP) A Missoula car-theft suspect is accused of trying to break the neck of a police dog, released by an officer to help apprehend the man.

Charges against 38-year-old Fermin Villanueva include felony theft and misdemeanor harm to the dog. Police say an intoxicated Villanueva left the animal, named Moose, gasping for air on Wednesday.

Police say Villanueva refused to comply when told to turn off the ignition of a van that was believed to have been stolen, and became stalled on a barrier. Villanueva's accused of putting Moose in a choke hold when the dog jumped into the van. Police say the animal gasped for air and received blows to the head, inflicted by Villanueva.

Moose lives with Missoula Police Officer Randy Widdicombe, who got into the van.

Law enforcement records say Widdicombe punched Villanueva until he released the dog, who then went for the man's arm. Records say Villanueva punched Moose a few more times, then was dragged from the van by Widdicombe.

Information from: Missoulian, http://www.missoulian.com (Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 02-01-08 1106CST | save this article / add to your favorites list