A shocking incident was captured on video showing two dogs being dragged behind a car, prompting concerned bystanders to contact the authorities. The dogs, a German Shepherd named Marzipan and a pit bull named Nougat, were tethered to the back of a red Volkswagen Passat and struggled to keep up as the vehicle moved along the road. Witnesses heard a bystander expressing outrage at the situation.
Nougat managed to break free, and the driver then placed both dogs inside the car before reportedly fleeing the scene. The New York Police Department (NYPD) was notified by witnesses who identified the owner and driver, Dan Bujor, 68, as the individual behind the wheel during the incident in Long Island. Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced that Bujor was charged with animal cruelty.
Katz commended the individuals who reported the incident and the rapid response of the NYPD in apprehending Bujor and rescuing the dogs, who are now receiving medical care from the ASPCA. Bujor was seen driving through Long Island City on January 4 and is scheduled to appear in Queens Criminal Court on March 5 to face charges of overdriving, torturing, and injuring animals, failure to provide sustenance, and driving without a license. If convicted, Bujor could face up to one year in jail.
Both Marzipan, aged 2, and Nougat, estimated to be between 2 and 4 years old, were examined by the ASPCA in Manhattan. Marzipan was found to have a ruptured eardrum, while Nougat had abrasions on her paw pads, skin inflammation, and diarrhea. ASPCA Vice President of Humane Law Enforcement, Howard Lawrence, expressed deep concern over the incident and highlighted the ongoing issue of animal abuse in New York City.
The ASPCA continues to care for the dogs and other animals affected by cruelty situations, with support from organizations such as the Veterinary Emergency Group (VEG) Upper East Side, the New York City Police Department, and the Queens District Attorney’s Office.