PLYMOUTH – On Wednesday, May 7, the New York State Police at Norwich and the Bureau of Criminal Investigation at Sidney arrested Preston L. Branagan, age of 69 of Plymouth, for the Agriculture and Markets Law of Torturing or Injuring Animals/Failure to Provide Sustenance (misdemeanor) and the Agriculture and Markets Law of Aggravated Cruelty to Animals (class “E” felony).

Troopers learned of the case in March when it was determined that two dogs were not being cared for properly on County Road 21 in Plymouth.

Troopers observed one dog on the premises that was deceased and decomposing. A second dog that appeared to be a senior dog was tied up on a chain with a collar and appeared uncared for and malnourished with no immediate access to food or water. That dog was surrendered to the Susquehanna SPCA for further care. A further investigation determined the dog was suffering from muscle atrophy, dehydration, emaciation, infection and other ailments due to the living conditions and poor care. The deceased dog was in later stages of decomposition and unable to have a necropsy performed.

Branagan was processed and issued appearance tickets to the Plymouth Town Court on June 17, 2025.

- Information from the NYSP