BALLSTON SPA, N.Y. (NEWS10) — A Saratoga County man was sentenced to prison after being found guilty of strangulation and animal cruelty. Michael Blair, 34, will spend four years in state prison.
On December 4, 2025 in the town of Moreau, Blair applied pressure to his then-girlfriend’s throat during a fight. He also abused the victim’s dog when the animal tried to intervene to protect her.
Get the latest news, weather, sports and entertainment delivered right to your inbox!
“This case highlights the well-documented connection between animal abuse and domestic violence,” Saratoga County District Attorney Brett Eby said. “Acts of cruelty toward animals are often warning signs of broader patterns of violence and control.”
After his release from prison, Blair will face five years of post-release supervision and will be added to the Saratoga County Animal Abuse Registry. He will also be subject to a no-animal order, which prevents him from owning, possessing, or living with animals…