Bronx District Attorney Darcel D. Clark announced on January 13 that David Mosley, a 26-year-old resident of the Bronx, has been indicted for aggravated cruelty to animals in connection with the death of a cat. The indictment follows widespread outrage from animal rights activists after a video surfaced on social media showing Mosley allegedly torturing the animal.
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Mosley appeared in Bronx Supreme Court on January 13, where he pleaded not guilty to the charges. He is scheduled to return to court in March 2026.
According to Clark, Mosley is accused of torturing a stray cat before posting images of the deceased animal on social media while boasting about his actions. The investigation revealed that on October 11, 2025, Mosley shared a photo on Instagram featuring himself with a live cat. Later, on October 22, he posted another image of the cat lying motionless in what appeared to be blood. An examination by the ASPCA confirmed that dried biological material collected from Mosley's residence was feline blood.
Detectives also discovered surveillance footage showing Mosley bringing the live cat into his apartment on October 9, 2025. When interrogated, he claimed to have found the cat already dead. Protests organized by animal rights activists occurred outside Bronx Criminal Court in November 2025, expressing their disbelief over Mosley's statements.
Media reports have characterized Mosley as a “wannabe rapper” accused of performing heinous acts against the cat. A previous court session featured Judge Linda Poust Lopez stating that she would not accept a plea deal that did not include the maximum sentence allowable for animal cruelty.
In advance of Mosley’s next court appearance on March 17, 2026, advocacy group Little Wanderers NYC has encouraged supporters to attend the protests, aiming to raise awareness around animal cruelty issues. Notably, Curtis Sliwa, founder of the Guardian Angels and animal welfare advocate, has joined these protests.
The case is being prosecuted by Major Case Assistant District Attorney Melanie Smith, with oversight from the Bronx District Attorney’s office.
Animal rights activists have been vocal against such cruelty in the Bronx and beyond, spotlighting the need for increased protection and awareness regarding animal welfare.