An approximately six-month-old puppy is now in the care of the ASPCA after being rescued from cruelty by officers of the New York City Police Department (NYPD). A concerned citizen called the NYPD early Friday morning after witnessing the puppy, named Hennessy, being beaten with a shovel and buried in the snow.

Hennessy—now called “Lacey”— is recovering in the intensive care unit of the ASPCA Animal Hospital, where she is receiving around-the-clock care and resting from her injuries. Despite the abuse she has endured in the past, Lacey is an affectionate puppy who appears to have a strong spirit.

"The amount of pain inflicted on such a young, vulnerable dog is truly inconceivable," says Howard Lawrence, Senior Director, ASPCA Anti-Cruelty Group. "Our staff is doing all we can to make her comfortable and applauds everyone involved in pursuing justice for Lacey."

The NYPD made an arrest in this case, and the alleged abuser has been charged with Aggravated Cruelty to Animals, Torturing and Injuring Animals and Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Fourth Degree.  

It is too soon for us to comment on Lacey’s ultimate prognosis, and as this is an open case, we cannot provide further information at this time.

“We applaud the brave citizens who witnessed this barbaric act and called the NYPD," says Lawrence. "We encourage anyone who witnesses an animal crime in progress in New York City to please call 911 immediately. You may be saving that animal's life."

To report animal cruelty not in progress, please call 311 in New York City.  If you are outside of New York City, visit our Fight Cruelty FAQs to learn how to report animal cruelty in your area.

To help save more animals like Lacey, please make a donation to the ASPCA today.