ASPCA Announces Arrest of Queens Man for Kicking & Beating Seven-Month-Old Cat

July 11, 2008

NEW YORK, July 11, 2008—Humane Law Enforcement agents of the ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) arrested Mr. Christakis Panayi on July 9 in Queens for animal cruelty.

ASPCA Special Agent Paul Lai arrested Mr. Panayi, 38, for beating and kicking his cat, Atosa, a seven-month-old Persian. Atosa sustained broken ribs and a broken leg.

The ASPCA was notified about the cat, which had been taken to All Pets Veterinary Care of 35-07 Ditmars Blvd., on May 6 for treatment. ASPCA agents picked up the cat on May 8 and took it to the Bergh Memorial Animal Hospital at the ASPCA, where it underwent surgery and is still recovering.

Panayi was charged with one count of aggravated animal cruelty and faces up to one year in jail and/or a $5,000 fine.

###

About the ASPCA®
Founded in 1866, the ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) was the first animal welfare organization to be established in North America and today serves as the nation’s leading voice for vulnerable and victimized animals. As a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation with more than two million supporters nationwide, the ASPCA is committed to preventing cruelty to dogs, cats, equines, and farm animals throughout the United States. The ASPCA assists animals in need through on-the-ground disaster and cruelty interventions, behavioral rehabilitation, animal placement, legal and legislative advocacy, and the advancement of the sheltering and veterinary community through research, training, and resources. For more information, visit www.ASPCA.org, and follow the ASPCA on Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok.

Share this page:

Facebook Twitter