Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced charges against Isaiah Gurley for the gruesome killing and subsequent burning of a dog in South Ozone Park. Gurley, a 29-year-old resident of Jamaica, Queens, has been hit with multiple charges including animal cruelty, arson, petit larceny, and reckless endangerment, according to an official statement from the Queens District Attorney's Office.
On the morning of July 24, an NYPD lieutenant discovered the burnt remains of a male pit bull at approximately 9 a.m. The disturbing scene, located near 127-20 116th Avenue, prompted an investigation by the NYPD Animal Cruelty Investigation Squad, according to the Queens District Attorney's Office. Surveillance footage showed Gurley entering a deli and leaving with a bottle of oil without paying. Prosecutors allege that minutes later, Gurley was captured on video dragging an unconscious dog, dousing it with oil, and setting it on fire.
"Animals are not punching bags. They are not toys. They have every right to proper care, just as humans do," Katz stated, as detailed by the Queens DA's Office notice. Gurley's alleged actions prompted a strong response from the ASPCA, with President and CEO Matt Bershadker praising the collaboration and dedication to seeking justice for the tortured animal. "Our veterinary forensic scientists play a critical role in supporting animal cruelty investigations like this by gathering crucial evidence that gives a voice to those who cannot speak–hopefully ensuring no other animal has to endure such cruelty again,” Bershadker underscored in the announcement.
Following a public release of Gurley's image, a tip led to his arrest at a Foot Locker in the Queens Center mall. He was taken into custody by officers from the 110th precinct. During the arraignment, Criminal Court Judge Glenda Hernandez set a return court date for September 17. If convicted on all charges, Gurley could face up to two years in prison. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Justin Bobko, under the oversight of several higher-ranked officials including Executive Assistant District Attorney for Special Prosecutions Joyce A. Smith.
