Landscaper held on bail for attempting to poison dogs

BOSTON (WHDH) -- A landscaper accused of poisoning dogs in Charlestown was held on $5,000 bail Monday.

Kenneth Hyland was charged with using poisoned meat to try and kill dogs that were going to the bathroom on the lawn he took care of.

“I just want to see what he looked like because I own a dog, I live in Charlestown, I think it’s a disgrace what he did and maybe an antifreeze cocktail would be nice for him,” said Bill, a dog owner.

The 53-year-old landscaper is being accused of what both the prosecutor and judge described as serious charges.

“A witness reported that a suspect, later identified as Kenneth Hyland, the defendant before you, was spreading poisonous food on the ground,” said prosecutor Peter Pasciuccio.

The poisonous food was cut up hot dogs allegedly soaked in antifreeze. The witness said he picked up the tainted meat after Hyland allegedly admitted he was trying to poison dogs that were using his freshly cut lawn as a bathroom.

His attorney said his client is innocent.

“We have an allegation made by this individual who brings these pieces of hot dog that have supposedly been soaked in antifreeze to the police station. This is not something the police have found on any lawn anywhere,” said defense attorney Marc Chamblee.

Police said they know Hyland well. He has 30 convictions on his record including assault and battery and larceny charges.

Attempting to poison man’s best friend has made Hyland the enemy.

“Maybe he ought to work with animals for awhile, you know, see how he changes, if he changes his opinion of them,” said Bill.

Hyland was held on bail and taken to the Nashua Street Jail. He was also ordered to stay away from Charlestown and from animals following his arrest on Friday.