PETITION TARGET: Queens County District Attorney Melinda Katz
UPDATE (6/6/2025): The man was arraigned and could face up to a year in jail if convicted, according to a press release from the district attorney.
We will continue to monitor this case and share any updates as they become available.
*
In a horrific case of neglect, authorities discovered 48 Belgian Malinois and German Shepherds — adults and puppies — packed into closets, cupboards, and behind furniture in a New York City apartment, living amid their own waste, according to Gothamist.
All of the dogs required urgent veterinary care and support, with three in such bad shape that they had to be euthanized right away. The dogs were frightened, lacked socialization, and struggled to walk. Tragically, some of them may have never even been outside.
“They never saw the light of day, because we would know if they were walked,” a neighbor said.
The man allegedly responsible for this severe neglect was charged with 48 counts of aggravated cruelty to animals and 48 counts of neglect of impounded animals.
Forced to live in an extremely overcrowded and filthy environment, these dogs were deprived of fresh air, exercise, and basic care — possibly for their entire lives.
Sign our petition urging the Queens County District Attorney to prosecute the individual responsible to the fullest extent of the law — including mandating intensive psychological intervention and a lifelong ban on having animals.
