Albuquerque, N.M., police say a puppy that was thrown into traffic four times by its owner is going to be fine, but the owner is in serious trouble.

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Police said John Padilla could face cruelty-to-animals charges in addition to a felony charge of battery on a

police officer after he grabbed the arresting officer's groin and squeezed, the Albuquerque Journal reported Tuesday.

Animal Services Division officials said the pit bull puppy, which hit a police car the fourth time it was thrown, was uninjured and is in protective custody.

"Somebody willing to do this to a puppy has no respect for anyone who comes his way," said Albuquerque police spokeswoman Trish Hoffman. "He sure didn't have respect for our officer."

Police said they were not yet sure why Padilla was throwing the puppy. His bail has been set at $10,000.