WHITE PLAINS, N.Y. — A Connecticut man pleaded guilty Monday to killing and dismembering a purebred English bulldog in a disturbing animal cruelty case that unfolded in New Rochelle late last year, prosecutors said.
Benjamin Tyler, 40, of New Milford, Conn., admitted to Aggravated Cruelty to Animals, an unclassified felony, in Westchester County Court, according to District Attorney Susan Cacace.
On or about Dec. 6, Tyler strangled the dog, named Bruno, at the home of a New Rochelle resident with whom he was staying, prosecutors said. He then dismembered the animal and scattered body parts in various locations across New Rochelle.
Tyler was arrested after an investigation by the New Rochelle Police Department, with assistance from SPCA Westchester. He is expected to be sentenced on Sept. 8 to one year in Westchester County Jail.
“The defendant’s conduct in this case is sickening beyond comprehension,” DA Cacace said in a statement. “Cruelty to animals will never be tolerated under my administration.”
Bruno’s remains found in multiple locations
Bruno was a well-known pet to his neighbors, described by authorities as a longtime acquaintance of Tyler. Officials said the victim was unaware of any immediate threats to the animal prior to the incident.
The investigation began after body parts were discovered in different areas of the city, prompting a coordinated response between law enforcement and animal welfare agencies. Forensic analysis confirmed the remains belonged to Bruno.
Authorities have not disclosed a motive in the case. Tyler was taken into custody shortly after the remains were identified, and he has remained in custody since.
Aggravated Cruelty to Animals is the highest-level offense under New York’s animal cruelty statutes. While it carries a maximum sentence of two years, Tyler’s plea agreement includes a one-year jail term.
