“Today, Wattie Folk is facing accountability for intentionally setting his friend’s apartment on fire. His reckless actions endangered tenants, destroyed property, killed two puppies, and severely injured five dogs,” said District Attorney Bragg. “Those who endanger the lives of people and animals in their homes will be held accountable.”

“As alleged, Joseph Kauffmann abused his dog by throwing him off the bed and scalding him with hot water for a prolonged period of time,” said District Attorney Bragg. “Pets are expected to be cared for by their owners, and this horrific alleged behavior will not be tolerated.” 

“Jose Rivera threatened and endangered the lives of dogs with this despicable dogfighting ring,” said District Attorney Bragg. “In addition to abusing animals, Jose Rivera knowingly possessed narcotic drugs with the intent to sell them, putting the safety of New Yorkers at risk. Today’s sentencing demonstrates that animal cruelty will never be tolerated in New York.” 

“As alleged, Ryder should not have been working on this hot summer day. Despite his condition, he was out for hours and worked to the point of collapse,” said District Attorney Bragg. “All animals deserve to be treated with the utmost care and the type of abuse that Ryder allegedly suffered is unacceptable.”

“We allege that Wattie Folk set fire to this apartment knowing that it would put the lives of these helpless dogs at risk. The fire endangered the people living in the building, killed two puppies, and severely injured five other dogs,” said District Attorney Bragg. “People and animals should be safe in their homes, and we will prosecute those who endanger their lives.”