A disturbing video captured the moment when two defenseless dogs were pulled behind a car while concerned witnesses contacted the authorities.
The incident involved a German Shepherd named Marzipan and a pit bull named Nougat, who were tethered to the rear of a red Volkswagen Passat, struggling to keep up as the vehicle moved along the road. A shocked bystander exclaimed, “What are these individuals doing to this dog, they’re dragging him from the back of the car.”
Nougat managed to break free, and the driver then loaded the dogs into the car before reportedly fleeing the scene.
Concerned witnesses alerted the New York Police Department (NYPD) after identifying the owner and driver, 68-year-old Dan Bujor, who was driving through Long Island. Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced that Bujor was charged with animal cruelty.
“As alleged, the defendant tied a German shepherd and a pit bull to the back of a car and dragged them down a Long Island City street,” she stated. “I appreciate the individuals who reported this cruel act and the prompt response from the NYPD in apprehending the defendant and rescuing the animals, now receiving medical care from the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals).
“We are relieved that the dogs survived and that their alleged abuser will be held accountable through our legal system.” Katz mentioned that witnesses saw Bujor around 6pm on January 4 and that his next court appearance would be at Queens Criminal Court on March 5.
Bujor, a resident of Long Island City, faced charges including two counts of overdriving, torturing, and injuring animals, failure to provide sustenance, and driving without a license. If convicted, Bujor could be sentenced to one year in prison.
Both dogs were taken to the ASPCA in Manhattan for examination. Marzipan, aged 2, was found to have a ruptured eardrum, while Nougat, estimated to be between 2 and 4 years old, had injuries to the paw pads, skin inflammation, and digestive issues.
Howard Lawrence, ASPCA Vice President of Humane Law Enforcement, commented, “The video of this incident is profoundly troubling and highlights the ongoing problem of animal abuse in New York City.
“In the past two weeks, the ASPCA has intervened in nearly 20 cases involving 18 suspected cruelty situations. We are grateful to offer continued care for these dogs and other vulnerable animals during their recovery, and we extend our sincere thanks to the Veterinary Emergency Group (VEG) Upper East Side, the New York City Police Department, and the Queens District Attorney’s Office for their swift response and invaluable assistance in this matter.”