EL CENTRO, California- The Southern California father accused of beating his step-son during a game of catch is out on bail.

Anthony Sanchez pleaded not guilty to felony child abuse in his first court appearance , but he refused to talk to the media.

Sanchez's defense attorney says the video has been misinterpreted, and that his client did not beat the 10 year old because he dropped the ball.

Video captured last month by a neighbor, shows Sanchez hitting the boy several times with a belt.

After the video went viral, Sanchez stepped down from his elected job at a water agency.

If found guilty, he faces up to 12 years in prison.