A disturbing video captured the moment two defenseless dogs were pulled behind a moving car while concerned bystanders alerted the police.
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. They struggled to keep pace as the vehicle proceeded down the road. A shocked onlooker yelled out in disbelief at the scene unfolding before them.
Nougat managed to break free, prompting the driver to gather the dogs and place them inside the car before reportedly fleeing the area.
Witnesses contacted the New York Police Department (NYPD) after identifying the owner and driver, 68-year-old Dan Bujor, who was allegedly operating the vehicle in Long Island. Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced that Bujor faced charges related to animal cruelty.
Katz stated, “The defendant is accused of tying a German shepherd and a pit bull to the back of a car and dragging them along a street in Long Island City. I commend the individuals who reported this cruel act and the prompt response of the NYPD in detaining the defendant and securing 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 the alleged perpetrator will face justice through our legal system.” Katz mentioned that witnesses saw Bujor around 6:00 PM on January 4 and that he was scheduled to appear in Queens Criminal Court on March 5.
Bujor, a resident of Long Island City, was charged with two counts of mistreating, torturing, and harming animals; neglecting to provide care; and driving without a valid license. If convicted, Bujor could be sentenced to a year in prison.
Both dogs were taken to the ASPCA in Manhattan for evaluation. Marzipan, aged 2, was found to have a ruptured eardrum, while Nougat, estimated to be between 2 and 4 years old, had injuries to her paw pads, skin inflammation, and digestive issues.
Howard Lawrence, ASPCA Vice President of Humane Law Enforcement, expressed, “The footage of this event is deeply troubling and highlights the ongoing problem of animal abuse in New York City.
“In recent weeks, the ASPCA has intervened in nearly 20 cases involving 18 suspected incidents of cruelty. We are grateful to provide ongoing support for these dogs and other vulnerable animals as they recover, and we extend our 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 actions and invaluable assistance in this matter.”