KINGSTON — Shortly after 1 p.m. today, Kingston Police were called to an apartment complex on 1 Kingston Collection Way for a disturbance.
A 911 caller reported noises from a nearby apartment suggestive of a violent altercation, followed by silence.
Upon arrival, officers launched an investigation into the incident.
It is alleged that 44-year-old Jonathan Paluzzi killed his Bull-Terrier mix, Brutus, in a cruel manner.
Paluzzi, known to regional law enforcement, was arrested at the scene.
Police learned that Paluzzi had tried to find someone to take or euthanize the healthy dog but failed.
Allegedly, he poisoned Brutus with fentanyl unsuccessfully before fatally stabbing the animal.
Officers found Paluzzi returning to the apartment and took him into custody.
Evidence collected at the scene was consistent with the reports, including the deceased dog with stab wounds, fresh blood, and bent grill prongs believed to be the murder weapon.
Paluzzi had a cigarette pack with residue suspected to be fentanyl and bloodstains on his person.
The MSPCA and other agencies are assisting with the investigation, which will include a necropsy and toxicology tests.
The Plymouth County District Attorney’s Office is working closely with detectives to ensure a robust prosecution.
Paluzzi is held on substantial bail and is expected to be arraigned tomorrow at Plymouth District Court on multiple felony counts of animal cruelty and possession of a Class A drug.
