KINGSTON, NY — A 30-year-old man faces multiple charges after allegedly abusing a puppy and threatening bystanders with a knife on Cedar Street.
Quameik Byrd, of Kingston, was arrested Oct. 16 following reports of animal abuse and a man with a knife, according to the Kingston Police Department.
Police responded to the scene at approximately 10:15 a.m.
Byrd was observed by several people kicking and striking a young puppy, as well as dragging it by its leash and lifting the dog into the air by its leash, police said.
When several people attempted to intervene and stop the abuse, Byrd allegedly brandished a knife and threatened to stab them and their families.
At least one of the people threatened was under the age of 17.
Byrd was arrested and transported to Kingston Police Department headquarters, where he punched a concrete wall with his fist, fracturing his finger.
He was transported to HealthAlliance Hospital, where he was treated and released.
Upon release, he was returned to police headquarters, processed and held for arraignment in Kingston City Court.
Byrd was charged with third-degree criminal possession of a weapon with a prior criminal conviction, a felony; fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon; four counts of second-degree menacing; endangering the welfare of a child; disorderly conduct; and overdriving, torturing and injuring animals.
The Ulster County SPCA assisted in the investigation and currently has the dog in its care and custody.
