Mt. Vernon Man Caught on Video, Arrested by Yonkers Police and SPCA for Animal Abuse

On the morning of January 25th, 2023, the Yonkers Police Department became aware of a video that surfaced on social media that captured an individual throwing a dog into a closed roll-down storefront gate in the confines of the 4th Precinct in our city. The Yonkers Police Department immediately initiated a criminal investigation into this incident.

Our 4th Precinct Officers coordinated with our Crime Control Strategies Unit and the SPCA of Westchester County’s Humane Law Enforcement Unit to investigate this matter to the fullest extent. In a matter of just a few hours, investigators were able to both identify and locate the suspect as well as the dog.

The dog, named “Maximus,” has been turned over to the custody of the SPCA of Westchester and will be assessed for any injuries or illnesses that require attention. Maximus is a VERY energetic pup at approximately 8-months-old and he was very happy to see our Officers today!

The suspect is identified as Anthoin McPHERSON, 29-years-old of Mount Vernon, New York. Officers took McPHERSON into custody today without incident. McPHERSON has been charged with a Misdemeanor in relation to his actions that were captured in the original video footage, as well as additional actions towards Maximus that were discovered by Officers during the course of the investigation. McPHERSON has been released with an Appearance Ticket awaiting arraignment at a later date. 

Great work by all involved, especially 4th Precinct Officers Nee and Bellone, Detective Specialist Jackson, and SPCA HLE Director Lungaro and Investigator Pataky!

Video here and below.