In a shocking incident captured on video, two dogs named Marzipan, a German Shepherd, and Nougat, a pit bull, were cruelly dragged behind a car in Long Island City. Concerned witnesses quickly alerted the New York Police Department (NYPD) as the dogs struggled to keep up with the moving vehicle. The driver, identified as Dan Bujor, 68, allegedly tied the dogs to the back of a red Volkswagen Passat before eventually taking them inside the car and fleeing the scene.
Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced that Bujor has been charged with multiple animal cruelty offenses for his actions. The ASPCA has taken custody of the dogs, who are currently receiving medical treatment. Marzipan, aged 2, suffered a ruptured eardrum, while Nougat, estimated to be between 2 and 4 years old, had paw injuries and skin inflammation. Bujor faces serious charges, including overdriving, torturing, and injuring animals, failure to provide sustenance, and driving without a license, with a potential sentence of one year in jail if convicted.
Howard Lawrence, ASPCA Vice President of Humane Law Enforcement, expressed deep concern over the incident, emphasizing the ongoing problem of animal abuse in New York City. The ASPCA, along with other organizations, is providing care and support to the affected animals while highlighting the need for continued vigilance against cruelty towards animals in the city.