Erie County District Attorney Michael J. Keane announces that Timothy D. Brown, also known as Timmie Brown, 48, of Buffalo, has been arraigned before Buffalo City Court Judge Carrie Phillips on one count of Aggravated Cruelty to Animals (Class “E” felony under New York State Agriculture and Markets Law) and one count of Harassment in the Second Degree (violation). The defendant was arraigned on Thursday, February 27, 2025.
It is alleged that on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, the defendant intentionally hit a puppy, a male Pug named “Goji,” multiple times while inside of a residence on Shields Avenue in the City of Buffalo. The victim called 911 after finding the dog deceased inside of their shared home. The defendant’s alleged actions caused alarm and distress to the victim.
Brown is scheduled to return for a felony hearing on Thursday, March 20, 2025, at 9:30 a.m. He was released on his own recognizance as the charges are non-qualifying offenses for bail. A temporary order of protection was issued on behalf of the victim as well as a “no animal” order, which prevents the defendant from owning or caring for any animals while the case is pending prosecution.
If convicted of the highest charge, Brown faces up to two years of incarceration.
DA Keane commends the Buffalo Police Department and the SPCA Serving Erie County for their work in this investigation.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Megan E. Mahoney of the Animal Cruelty Unit.
As are all persons accused of a crime, the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.