Brookhaven, Georgia, February 3, 2026
Aspen Kartier, a 19-year-old rapper and online streamer, was arrested in Brookhaven, Georgia, on charges of animal cruelty after videos surfaced showing her mistreating a puppy during a livestream. The arrest followed a police investigation instigated by public outrage over the videos. The puppy has been taken into custody to ensure its safety, while the investigation continues and the streaming platform Twitch has suspended her channel pending review.
Atlanta
Teen Rapper Arrested on Animal Cruelty Charges After Viral Videos Circulate
A 19-year-old teen rapper and online streamer, known by the stage name Aspen Kartier and legally identified as Aspen Easterling, was arrested in Brookhaven, Georgia, over the weekend on a charge of animal cruelty. The arrest followed the widespread circulation of videos on social media platforms that allegedly depicted Easterling physically mistreating a 3-month-old Maltipoo puppy during a livestream.
Details of the Arrest and Investigation
Brookhaven police initiated an investigation after receiving numerous complaints from concerned citizens who viewed the disturbing footage online. The videos reportedly showed Easterling striking the small dog multiple times and grabbing it by the scruff of its neck. On Friday, January 30, 2026, officers executed both a search warrant at a residence on the 1000 block of Town Boulevard, where the alleged abuse was believed to have occurred, and an arrest warrant for Easterling. She was taken into custody around 9:35 p.m. and subsequently booked into the DeKalb County Jail on one charge of animal cruelty.
Upon searching the residence, officers located the Maltipoo puppy. While police noted the dog appeared to be in good physical condition at the time of the welfare check, DeKalb County Animal Control took custody of the animal as a precautionary measure to ensure its safety and proper care. The investigation into the incident remains ongoing, and it is presently unclear whether the puppy sustained any injuries not immediately apparent or if it will be permanently removed from Easterling’s custody.
Social Media Impact and Platform Response
The viral nature of the videos played a significant role in bringing the alleged abuse to the attention of authorities and the wider public. The footage sparked outrage across social media, with many viewers and animal welfare advocates calling for immediate action. In response to the circulating videos and community guidelines violations, the streaming platform Twitch has temporarily made Easterling’s channel unavailable. The duration of this suspension is pending an internal review by the platform.
Easterling, who also goes by the name Aspen Kartier, has addressed the allegations following her release from custody on bond on January 30, 2026, around 5 p.m. She denies severe mistreatment of the dog.
Wider Implications of Online Conduct
This incident underscores the enduring presence and rapid dissemination of information in the digital age. Content broadcast live can be quickly captured, shared, and become a permanent part of the online record, often leading to real-world consequences. The public’s swift response to perceived animal mistreatment online reflects a broader societal expectation for accountability and the protection of vulnerable creatures. Animal welfare laws apply regardless of whether an act occurs online or offline, and footage can serve as crucial evidence in criminal investigations. The events serve as a poignant reminder of the responsibilities inherent in public platforms and the quiet but powerful force of collective human conscience when confronted with perceived injustice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was arrested on animal cruelty charges?
A 19-year-old teen rapper and online streamer, known by the stage name Aspen Kartier and legally identified as Aspen Easterling, was arrested.
What was the charge against Aspen Easterling?
Aspen Easterling was arrested on one charge of animal cruelty.
Where did the arrest take place?
The arrest took place in Brookhaven, Georgia.
What led to the arrest?
The arrest followed the widespread circulation of videos on social media platforms that allegedly depicted Easterling physically mistreating a 3-month-old Maltipoo puppy during a livestream.
What happened to the puppy involved?
The Maltipoo puppy was located and, while appearing to be in good physical condition at the time, was taken into custody by DeKalb County Animal Control as a precautionary measure.
Has Aspen Easterling responded to the allegations?
Yes, Easterling denies severe mistreatment of the dog.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Individual Arrested | Aspen Easterling (aka Aspen Kartier), 19-year-old teen rapper and streamer. |
| Charge | Animal Cruelty. |
| Location of Arrest | Brookhaven, Georgia. |
| Cause of Investigation | Viral videos on social media allegedly showing mistreatment of a puppy during a livestream. |
| Animal Involved | 3-month-old Maltipoo puppy. |
| Status of Puppy | Taken into custody by DeKalb County Animal Control; appeared in good health at initial check. |
| Platform Response | Twitch channel temporarily unavailable due to community guideline violations. |
| Easterling’s Stance | Denies severe mistreatment of the dog. |
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