On July 6, 2022, at approximately 12 p.m., the Watervliet Police Department responded to 540 3^rd Ave. to investigate an animal complaint. Upon arrival, officers interviewed the tenant, Paul S. Lacy, who provided several inconsistent answers regarding the condition and safety of the animals in his residence. In addition, officers observed a substantial amount of fecal matter on Lacy’s shoes during the interview, in addition to smelling a strong odor of urine coming from inside.

A search warrant was obtained and upon its execution, 20 dogs aged five months to three years old and one cat were found to be living in grossly deplorable conditions. The animals were safely removed and relocated with assistance from the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society and the Green Island Police Department.

The Office of the General Manager, along with Watervliet Code Enforcement, determined the home to be inhabitable and ordered its closure.

Watervliet Police charged Paul Lacy, a 34-year-old male from Watervliet, NY (photo attached) with 22 Counts of Overriding, Torturing and Injuring Animals (Class A Misdemeanor) in violation of the NYS Agriculture and Markets Law. Lacy was released on an Appearance Ticket and ordered to appear at a later date.