Long Island Man Left Dogs To Die After Moving Out Of Apartment:DA

An Elmont man was arrested on Monday and charged with abandoning two Great Danes, one of which died. According to Nassau County District Attorney Madeline Singas, Mian Siddique, 49, left his two dogs, brothers named Sheru and Maverick, locked in a basement apartment after he moved out.

They were found two weeks later by a Town of Hempstead Animal Control officer who was called to the home.

“This defendant allegedly moved out of his apartment abandoning his two Great Danes to die of dehydration and starvation,” Singas said. “Every dog deserves a caring and loving home, and when pet owners neglect or abuse their animals, we will hold them criminally accountable.”

According to Singas, on Jan. 14 a Town of Hempstead Animal Control officer went to the Oakley Avenue home to conduct a dog welfare check. When he arrived, the officer discovered two Great Danes inside the basement apartment. Siddique allegedly left them behind after moving out Jan. 1.

The two dogs were taken to the Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter where they were examined by a veterinarian. They were both 30 to 40 pounds underweight, severely malnourished and allegedly neglected for two to three months.

According to veterinarians, Sheru had severe dental disease, multiple pressure sores and was very weak. During treatment, the dog vomited pieces of fabric and later died. Maverick was found with hair loss, pressure sores and dental disease, but he has recovered and is now up for adoption.

“Thanks to the hard work and due diligence of the Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter staff, who properly investigated and reported this heinous crime, we are sending a strong message that animal cruelty and neglect will not be tolerated in the Town of Hemsptead,” said Town Supervisor Laura Gillen. “This was an outstanding team effort that will hopefully lead to justice for Sheru and Maverick."

Siddique is charged with two counts of overdriving, torturing and injuring animals, and two counts of abandonment of animals. He was released on probation and is due back in court May 4. If convicted of the top charge, Siddique could face up to a year in jail and a $1,000 fine.

To report suspected animal abuse in the Town of Hempstead, call the Hempstead Animal Shelter at (516) 785-5220 or the Town’s Helpline at (516) 489-6000.

Main Photo: Nassau County District Attorney's office