YORKTOWN – A 61-year-old retired NYPD officer accused of fatally shooting a dog during a confrontation on Route 118 in Yorktown last week is scheduled to answer felony charges tonight in Yorktown Town Court.
James Molloy of Yorktown Heights was charged with reckless endangerment and aggravated cruelty to animals after allegedly shooting the 12-year-old husky-shepherd mix while it was walking with the dog’s owner, Matt Steele.
Authorities said the dog named Luke broke off its leash and approached Molloy who was walking his dog. When the two dogs began fighting, Molloy who is legally permitted to carry a firearm, allegedly took out his gun and fatally shot Luke.
The shooting prompted community support for Steele, who authorities said was experiencing homelessness, with local residents providing food for him and his dog.
Yorktown Supervisor Ed Lachterman called the incident one that has “deeply affected our community.”
Lachterman said he knew Luke, “having taken him on walks over the years. I found him to be a curious and friendly dog. My heart goes out to the owner.”
The supervisor added that he hoped the “case was resolved fairly, based on the evidence.”
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