Revere man facing animal cruelty charges for stabbing, killing his dog
BOSTON, September 6, 2023 – A Revere man was arraigned last week in Chelsea District Court on charges that he stabbed and killed a dog in his apartment and assaulted his roommate, Suffolk District Attorney Kevin Hayden announced.
DON ALGENI, 57, was charged with animal cruelty, malicious killing or injury to a domestic animal, and assault and battery on a family or household member. Judge Kareem Morgan ordered Algeni held without bail pending a dangerousness hearing on September 7.
At about 12:52 a.m. on August 30, Revere police and firefighters responded to a Lowell Street apartment for a medical aid call. First responders observed Algeni lying in his bed with blood on both arms, screaming that he wanted police to kill him. Algeni then lost consciousness and was transported to a local hospital. Responders observed beside Algeni’s bed a dog, covered in blood, suffering from at least five stab wounds. A slash wound to the dog’s neck was so deep his head was almost severed.
Algeni’s roommate told police that Algeni banged on her bedroom door around 9 p.m., demanding her to open it while saying that he had a key and could enter at any time. The roommate also showed officers a video from August 23 of Algeni screaming at her and throwing a cup in her direction. She told officers Algeni made statements about a week ago such as “I’m going out and I’m not going out alone.”
Police seized numerous knives and swords from the apartment, including a 12-inch Bowie-style knife covered in blood.
“This is a tragic and terrifying situation for everyone involved, including the first responders. Sadly, a defenseless animal was brutally attacked and killed. It’s yet another example of how unpredictable 911 calls can be and an example of responders handling their responsibilities with care and restraint,” Hayden said.
All charged individuals are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Suffolk County District Attorney Kevin Hayden’s office serves the communities of Boston, Chelsea, Revere, and Winthrop, Mass. The office handles over 20,000 cases a year. More than 160 attorneys in the office practice in nine district and municipal courts, Suffolk Superior Court, the Massachusetts Appeals Court, the Supreme Judicial Court, and the Boston Juvenile Courts. The office employs some 300 people and offers a wide range of services and programs to serve anyone who comes in contact with the criminal justice system. This office is committed to educating the public about the services we provide, our commitment to crime prevention, and our dedication to keeping the residents of Suffolk County safe.
James Borghesani, Chief of Communications