Sign: Viral Video of Violent Dog Abuse by (Now) Ex-Firefighter Sparks his Arrest

Published: September 23, 2025 at 02:00 AM Author: Penny Eims

Fort Worth, Texas – A former Azle firefighter was arrested and charged after a video surfaced showing him violently attacking his dog, and in a separate video, angrily berating his child for standing on the couch in her shoes. On September 19, Fort Worth police arrested Tyler Stein on a third-degree felony charge of cruelty to non-livestock animals, involving killing, poisoning, or causing serious bodily injury.

Stein’s troubles began when his ex-girlfriend, Stephanie Boatman, posted a Ring video showing Stein screaming at his little girl, and a different video showing him hitting, kicking, and dragging his Rottweiler, Deacon. Boatman’s video went viral on social media, sparking an investigation that ultimately led to his arrest.

Boatman tells ABC 10 News that she posted the video as a warning to other women, stating, “Just to be able to snap like that on an innocent animal like that—it’s scary.” Adding, “I feel like people need to know who this person is, especially if he’s out there in the community taking care of sick people.”

Viewer discretion advised: Disturbing content.

After the video went viral on social media the Azle Fire Department put Stein on leave, and two days later, Stein resigned. The Azle Professional Firefighters Association commented on the behavior observed in the videos:

“We emphasize: Under no circumstances would we have attempted to defend the alleged misconduct had we been asked to do so. What was depicted in the video was deeply disturbing to all within our association.”

These disturbing incidents reveal Stein’s erratic temper and alarming lack of self-control, particularly given his chosen career as a first responder. Firefighters are entrusted with the safety and protection of the public. Someone who snaps in anger and inflicts such brutality on a defenseless animal demonstrates behavior that is dangerous not only to animals but potentially to people as well. Violence, especially when fueled by rage, is rarely confined to a single victim.

A second video of Stein’s abusive behavior with his daughter is below:

Please add your name to the petition to hold this man accountable for his actions! This man kicked, hit, and dragged his dog – a dog who did not fight back against the abuse. Deacon loved and trusted the man who lashed out and caused him pain.

Stein’s behavior raises serious questions about his judgment, stability, and fitness to hold positions of responsibility in any community. A man who so easily turns to violence poses a threat to society, and his crime must be taken with the utmost seriousness.

Additional information was reported to Paul Mueller by multiple acquaintances regarding the abuse in the video below.

Target: Tarrant County District Attorney’s Office

WHY THIS PETITION MATTERS: 

We, the undersigned, demand that Tyler Stein be held accountable for his violent attack on his dog. It is our collective demand that this man face the maximum sentence for the 3rd Degree felony charge of cruelty to non-livestock animals and be permanently banned from owning or residing with animals. Laws must recognize the actual seriousness of animal abuse and ensure that those who commit these brutal acts are held fully accountable.

Research has consistently shown a strong link between animal cruelty and human violence. Individuals who commit such heinous acts against animals often pose a threat to society as a whole, as animal abuse is frequently a precursor to other violent crimes. Failing to hold this man accountable not only denies justice to his dog but also endangers the community at large. We must send a clear message that such cruelty will not be tolerated.

Individuals are presumed innocent until found guilty in a court of law. Animal Victory relies upon the authorities and the court system to determine guilt or innocence.

Note: Tyler Stein was booked into the Tarrant County Jail and released on bond on September 22. The dogs were examined by a veterinarian and after being cleared, they were adopted to a new family and are safe.

News

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Update 10/06/2025: Case #1890282 is now pending a Grand Jury Indictment which has not, as of yet, been scheduled. The current prosecutor is Alec Trono. Flash Drive can be sent to: Tarrant County District Attorney’s Office, Tim Curry Criminal Justice Center, 401 W Belknap St, Fort Worth, TX 76102. PH: 817-884-140