Peter Minichello, a resident of West Islip, was apprehended on Wednesday, July 12, over a year after an alleged incident took place. Suffolk County Police reported that Minichello, 32, was accused of pushing a 5-year-old chihuahua mix down a flight of stairs while at his residence on Edgewood Road on July 6, 2022.
Tragically, the dog, which belonged to a family member, succumbed to its injuries and died as a result of the incident. Following an extensive investigation conducted by the Suffolk County DA’s Biological, Environmental, and Animal Safety Team (BEAST), authorities concluded that Minichello's actions directly led to the dog's untimely demise.
Minichello now faces serious charges, including two felony offenses: aggravated cruelty to animals and criminal mischief. After his arrest, he was released with an appearance ticket and is scheduled to appear at First District Court in Central Islip on Tuesday, August 1.
Animal welfare advocates have expressed deep concern over this distressing case, emphasizing the importance of holding individuals accountable for acts of cruelty towards animals. The charges against Minichello underscore the seriousness with which law enforcement and the justice system approach animal abuse cases on Long Island.
Local residents are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicions of animal abuse or neglect to the appropriate authorities. The Suffolk County DA's Office and law enforcement agencies are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of animals throughout the region.
This story serves as a stark reminder of the responsibility we hold as a community to protect and advocate for our furry companions.