“No Justifiable Purpose”: Saratoga County Man Charged in Dog’s Death

Killed His Own Dog

A Saratoga County man is facing a felony animal cruelty charge after authorities say he allegedly shot and killed his own dog.

According to the Saratoga County Sheriff's Office, deputies received an animal complaint on July 1st regarding an incident allegedly occurring in the Town of Providence.
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Following an investigation, 28-year-old Daniel J. Van Aken of Providence was arrested on July 2nd and charged with aggravated cruelty to animals, a Class E felony.

"No Justifiable Purpose"

Investigators allege Van Aken shot his dog with a shotgun "with no justifiable purpose," causing the animal's death. The incident reportedly happened on Fish House Road on June 29th.

Photo: Google Maps

Van Aken was released on an appearance ticket and is scheduled to appear in Providence Town Court. Under current New York law, the charge is not considered a qualifying offense for bail.

28-year-old Daniel Van Aken was arrested and charged with allegedly shooting his own dog to death. Photo: Saratoga County Sheriff's Office

Sadly, This is All Too Familiar

Sadly, stories like this have become all too familiar across the Capital Region. Whether it's animals left in dangerous heat, abandoned and tied up, living in horrific hoarding conditions, or cases like this, they all serve as a reminder that owning a pet is a responsibility and not a privilege to be taken lightly.

For those found guilty of intentionally harming innocent animals, many would agree there's a special place waiting for them... and it's probably a lot hotter than Upstate New York.

As with all criminal charges, the allegations are accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.

If any information in this story changes or is updated by authorities, please email brian@wgna.com.