February 2026 – Denyatta Mathis (34) was arrested following an investigation into a report of a dog left on a sidewalk. When officers arrived, they discovered a mixed-breed Pomeranian zipped inside a backpack. Investigators alleged that the dog had been placed inside the bag, zipped closed, and left outside with no food, no water, and no means of escape — all while temperatures were below zero. Mathis has been charged with Torturing or Injuring Animals and Abandonment of Animals. She was issued an appearance ticket and is expected to appear in Albany City Criminal Court at a later date.