ASPCA Arrests Brooklyn Resident for Injuring Cat

Male brown tabby suffered injury to leg; expected to make full recovery
March 26, 2012

Velet at the ASPCA’s Bergh Memorial Animal Hospital in Manhattan

NEW YORK—Humane Law Enforcement (HLE) agents of the ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) arrested Brooklyn resident Daniel Lawson on Saturday for allegedly injuring his two-year-old male cat, named Velet.

On March 17, 2012, HLE agents responded to a complaint of an injured feline that was brought into Animal Care & Control's (AC&C) Brooklyn facility. During the course of the investigation it was determined that the cat had sustained a six inch laceration to his right hind leg, and that the injury was inflicted by a metal bar used by Mr. Lawson. Velet was treated at AC&C and HLE agents subsequently brought him to the ASPCA's Bergh Memorial Animal Hospital for further observation.

Lawson, 24, was arrested by ASPCA Special Agent John Akdikmen. He was charged with one count of misdemeanor animal cruelty. If convicted, he faces up to one year in jail and/or a $1,000 fine. Lawson is due in Kings County Criminal Court on April 25.

ASPCA veterinarians expect Velet to make a full recovery; he will eventually be made available for adoption.

To report animal cruelty in New York City, contact the ASPCA’s Humane Law Enforcement department at (212) 876-7700, ext. 4450 or [email protected].