An Elmsford veterinarian has been charged with abusing animals.

Authorities say Javier Diaz was caught on camera punching and kicking multiple animals while their owners were waiting in the lobby.
Javier Diaz took off running as he left Elmsford Village Court Friday.

The veterinarian and owner of Main Street Animal Hospital was arraigned on charges of assault, forgery and six counts of animal cruelty after current and former employees reported the alleged abuse.

During a two-week joint investigation with the Elmsford police department, SPCA Westchester says it obtained videos showing Diaz abusing and aggressively handling animals.“

He was shown kicking a dog and elderly three-legged dog in the head, so it was really, really bad stuff that was going on," said Ernest Lungaro, of SPCA Westchester. 

News 12 went to the animal hospital for comment and found that the door was locked.

There was also a sign telling customers to "seek another animal hospital until further notice."

The Building Department has also deemed the business unsafe after finding exposed wires.

Behind the business, News 12 found what they were told is Diaz’s vehicle with a smashed windshield and what appears to be animal feces inside.

During the arraignment, three orders of protection were issued by a judge for Diaz to stay away from the people who reported him.

Diaz was released without bail and is due back in court May 11.

News 12 checked the state Education Department, which licenses vets, and could not find his name listed as active.

Authorities believe Diaz may be connected to more cases of animal abuse.

If you have any information, contact the SPCA's 24-hour Animal Cruelty Hotline at 914-941-7797.