Community calls for justice outside Yorktown court in dog killing case
As a hearing for James Molloy, the accused killer of a beloved Yorktown dog, unfolded in Yorktown Justice Court Tuesday, Aug. 11, dozens of community members rallied in the rain to show support for the slain animal.
Molloy, a retired New York City Police officer, allegedly shot and killed the 14-year-old husky-shepherd named Luke while walking his own dog Wednesday, Aug. 3. He is now facing two felony counts of aggravated animal cruelty and reckless endangerment of the first degree.
The hearing was adjourned in just over 10 minutes. Molloy is expected back in court on Oct. 13. Earlier attempts by reporters to reach Molloy's lawyer have been unsuccessful thus far.
Hours before his court appearance, Yorktown Supervisor Ed Lachterman urged residents attending the hearing to avoid any "disruptive or disrespectful behavior."
"Our Town Court is a place where the rule of law prevails and where every individual is entitled to a fair and impartial proceeding, regardless of the allegations against them."
"It was tense," said Mahopac resident Danielle Civitano, as she described the atmosphere inside the packed courtroom, which had filled to capacity with rally attendees in minutes. "For you to pull your gun in the middle of broad daylight on a walking path … you're unhinged."
Luke belonged to Matt Steele, a Yorktown man currently experiencing homelessness. A number of residents have described the duo as well-known and widely liked "staples" of the small town.
"He was the sweetest, kindest dog," Steele told The Journal News last week. "He was my emotional support."
More coverage: Yorktown community creates memorial for dog shot and killed
'Justice For Luke'
The courthouse parking lot was chock-full on Tuesday, as animal lovers and community members poured in from Yorktown and beyond for the rally.
Signs, most penned with the words "Justice for Luke," bobbed throughout the crowd. Cars honked in support as they shuttled past. Some brought their own dogs. Others brought gifts for Steele.
Christine Leonard, whose sister-in-law spent time with Steele and Luke, traveled from Putnam County to attend the rally.
"We've all come in very close contact with the dog," she said, gesturing to the growing crowd of sign-clad residents. "I just want to be here to support the dog that can't speak for himself."
Patricia Carone, a longtime Yorktown resident and founder of organic dog treat business Fi-Dough, would often bring Luke her homemade biscuits. As she stood outside the courthouse, she pulled out a framed poem about Luke she had written for Steele.
"He loved that dog," she said, tearing up.
"I hope he gets what he's due," she continued, referring to the defendant. "But even then, nothing can bring Luke back."
Suspect in dog shooting flanked by police as he left court
The shooting, which took place along Route 118 near a busy shopping complex, has rattled a town that some have described as the "safest place" they've ever lived.
"I go to a park twice a month loaded with dogs … no one shoots them when they get into a little scuffle," said Carone. "This guy was out of control. He was out of control."
What we know: Who is James Molloy? Suspect in Yorktown dog shooting was NYPD officer
As Molloy left court surrounded by police on Tuesday evening, chants calling for "justice" rang out among the crowd.
"There was no reason," said Civitano, who is the proud owner of three dogs. "There's no justification whatsoever."
Pat Zubradt, a Peekskill resident who had met Luke a handful of times while on her way to work in Yorktown, said the shooting brought up serious public safety concerns.
"Somebody else could get hurt too, with the ricocheting bullets," she said. "I hope he serves some time for this, and I hope they make it known that you just can't take your gun out and shoot something."
"It shouldn't have ever happened," she continued.
(This story may update.)
This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: Community calls for justice outside Yorktown court in dog killing case