JASON RANTZ

Video shows CEO for Safeco Field catering company allegedly abusing dog

Aug 26, 2014, 4:07 PM | Updated: 11:56 pm

Warning: This video may disturb some viewers.

The CEO of a catering company, whose client list includes Safeco Field, allegedly abused a dog in an elevator last month.

Desmond Hague, CEO of Centerplate Inc., is allegedly seen in the elevator at the Private Residences at Hotel Georgia in July repeatedly kicking a small Doberman pinscher. The man also picks the dog up by the leash.

“The man in this video is a disgusting, despicable human being,” said KIRO Radio’s Jason Rantz. “I can’t think of any justifiable reason to kick an innocent animal that’s simply laying there and behaving.”

SeattleDogSpot reported hotel employees reported the incident to British Columbia Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, which said this may not be the first time that dog has been mistreated.

Two BC SPCA officers entered a Vancouver, B.C. condo Wednesday night and found a Doberman pinscher puppy in a crate with food and water bowls out of reach. The dog was surrounded by the smell of its own urine, according to The Vancouver Sun.

SPCA now has custody of the dog.

The Mariners released the following statement on Tuesday:

“We are aware of the video and we have told Mr. Hague that his behavior is inexcusable. Although we are extremely disappointed in Mr. Hague’s actions, we do not believe that this incident represents the corporate philosophy of Centerplate and we do not believe this should affect our long and successful relationship with the corporation. We will leave it to Centerplate to pursue any disciplinary action they determine is appropriate.”

Hague apologized for his actions, according to the Sun.

“I take full responsibility for my actions,” he said. “This incident is completely and utterly out of character and I am ashamed and deeply embarrassed. Under the circumstances of the evening in question, a minor frustration with a friend’s pet caused me to lose control of my emotional response. Unfortunately, I acted inappropriately, and I am deeply sorry for that and am very grateful that no harm was caused to the animal.”

“I have reached out to the SPCA and have personally apologized to the dog’s owner. At this time, I would like to extend my apology to my family, company and clients, as I understand that this has also reflected negatively on them.”

The Sun reports Hague has not been charged with a crime.

Centerplate Inc., which has partnered with arenas and stadiums across the country, issued the following statement:

“We are aware of the incident involving Centerplate CEO Des Hague and the attention surrounding it. The company has now gathered all of the current facts from local authorities and is in the process of conducting an internal review. Centerplate does not condone the mistreatment of animals by any of its employees. Mr. Hague has agreed to attend counseling to address his anger management issues and has publicly expressed he is deeply ashamed and remorseful for his behavior. He has apologized to everyone directly involved as well as to the company’s clients and employees, and has pledged a significant, personal, multi-year financial commitment to help support the protection and safety of animals. There will be a public statement as soon as Centerplate completes its review.”

“If I’m Centerplate, I’m getting rid of this guy,” said KIRO Radio’s Ron Upshaw.

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