At the urgent request of the New York City Police Department (NYPD), the ASPCA recently assisted with the removal of nearly 30 dogs found living in filthy conditions in Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn. The dogs of varying breeds were discovered in multiple areas of the building, including the backyard and in cages in the basement, many without access to food or clean water and in crates covered in feces and urine. The basement also had poor ventilation and a strong odor of ammonia.

Jason Nunez was arrested and charged with 28 counts of failure to provide proper sustenance, and 28 counts of failure to provide proper food and drink to an impounded animal (both misdemeanors).

“Upon arriving at the property, it was clear these animals needed to be immediately removed from the filthy environment where they were living so they could receive much-needed medical treatment and care,” said David Little, ASPCA Senior Law Enforcement Liaison. “The ASPCA is grateful to be in a position where we could quickly mobilize when we learned our partners at the NYPD needed our assistance with their immediate rescue, and we thank the NYPD and Brooklyn District Attorney’s Office for prioritizing animal welfare in New York City.”

Upon initial examination, some of the dogs appear to be dehydrated, underweight and were suffering from a variety of medical issues including open wounds, ear and skin infections, overgrown nails, and dirty hair coats with fecal staining and a strong urine odor. 

After transporting the animals, ASPCA veterinary and behavior experts conducted forensic exams and are continuing to provide the animals with much-needed medical care and behavioral treatment and enrichment.

“We have no tolerance for animal neglect in Brooklyn and I’m grateful to our partners at the ASPCA and the NYPD for their hard work rescuing these dog victims from the allegedly squalid conditions where they suffered in cramped cages without food or clean water,” said Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez. “Animals cannot speak for themselves, and our Animal Crimes Unit is committed to seeking justice for the innocent dogs who suffered because of the alleged neglectful and inhumane conduct of this defendant.”