ASPCA Agents Arrest Queens Man for Animal Cruelty

NEW YORK, May 25, 2007—ASPCA® Humane Law Enforcement agents arrested Mr. Jamel Carter of Queens for animal cruelty after discovering four starved and emaciated dogs last month in Carter’s backyard.

Carter, 23, was charged with three counts of animal cruelty and three counts of abandoning an animal, and faces up to six years in prison and a $12,000 fine. ASPCA arresting officer Paul Lai caught up with Carter on May 22 at Brooklyn Criminal Court, where he was facing a judge about outstanding, unrelated drug charges.

On April 20, 2007, ASPCA agents responded to an animal cruelty complaint at 80-50 57 Street in the Ridgewood section of Queens. An anonymous caller reported several dogs which appeared to be dead in the debris-strewn rear yard. An adult pit bull mix and three puppies were discovered, and were rushed to the ASPCA’s Bergh Memorial Animal Hospital for emergency life-saving treatment. Some of the dogs were in shock; all were extremely emaciated and starving. One puppy, comatose and near death with a body temperature of 80 degrees, received intensive treatment including intravenous fluids, blood transfusions and oxygen. The adult dog died; the three puppies have recovered and are currently being evaluated for possible adoption.