On July 5, 2023, the Watervliet Police Department responded to First Avenue for a report of a deceased canine. Upon arrival, officers located a lifeless, four-year-old French Bulldog on the sidewalk.  

Through investigation, it was determined that the dog suffered from a medical emergency and its owner, Justyce Matthew, failed to provide the required care which contributed to its death. The defendant then dispensed the deceased animal on the sidewalk.  

“There are no words to effectively describe the wickedness of people who intentionally abuse animals. Not only did the defendant cause inconceivable distress to this dog but he also failed to provide the medical treatment that could have saved its life,” said Watervliet Police Chief Joseph Centanni. “Instead, the offender engaged in several acts to avoid detection including discarding the deceased animal on the sidewalk like trash. The Watervliet Police Department would like to thank the residents and business owners who provided vital information which greatly assisted the department in apprehending this defendant,” concluded Centanni.  

Watervliet Police charged Justyce Matthew, a 48-year-old male from Watervliet (photo attached) with Animal Cruelty (Agriculture & Markets Law-Misdemeanor). 

Matthew was released on an appearance ticket. 

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