University of Buffalo football players Blake Hiligh, Zachary Pilarcek charged after beating dog

Publish date: 2024-09-02

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Two now-dismissed University of Buffalo football players were charged Thursday in the alleged beating of a miniature poodle with footage of the twisted animal abuse posted on social media, prosecutors said.

Blake Hiligh, 19, and Zachary Pilarcek, 20 were both charged in the sickening case that began earlier this month after a probe was opened by the SPCA of Erie County, prosecutors said in a press release.

The alleged beating happened inside an apartment on June 13. The innocent 4-year-old male dog, which suffered bruises and abrasions from a leather belt, was seized from the home and treated by veterinarians, the Erie County District Attorney’s Office said.

Both players were initially suspended before they were thrown off the team following the incident.

The dog, named Kobe, is still under treatment at an undisclosed location, prosecutors said.

Video showed one player holding the dog and attacking it with an unidentified instrument as the other player taped the shocking moment, two sources told the Buffalo News.

The footage was obtained by Spectrum News 1, but the station said it was not showing it because of its graphic nature.

Blake Hiligh University of Buffalo
Zachary Pilarcek University of Buffalo

“The UB football program has zero tolerance for this type of behavior,” coach Maurice Linguist said in a statement to the Buffalo News.

Both defendants were charged with one count of overdriving, torturing and injuring animals; failure to provide proper sustenance, the district attorney’s office said. The charge is a misdemeanor.

Each was released on their own recognizance but are prohibited from owning or caring for any animals while the case is pending.

Both Hiligh and Pilarcek were charged Thursday after allegedly beating a mini poodle with a leather belt. WKBW/YouTube

“I want to thank our partners at the SPCA for their work in this investigation and the many services that they provide to help animals in our community,” District Attorney John Flynn said in a statement.

“I also commend the University at Buffalo and the UB Football program for taking immediate action, which further demonstrates that animal abuse will not be tolerated in this community.”

Hiligh and Pilarcek could both face up to a year in prison if convicted. 

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