New York, NY – A month-long manhunt concluded on Thursday with the arrest of Lenue Moore, 31, in Brooklyn. Moore is charged in the fatal shooting of his neighbor, her friend, and her dog in Washington Heights, Manhattan. The shocking incident, which occurred on September 29, has stirred considerable public outcry and debates about community safety and conflict resolution.
The victims, identified as Jackie Billini, 57, Levaughn Harvin, 42, and Billini’s dog, Zeus, were reportedly targeted by Moore over a longstanding dispute involving the dog’s barking and behavior. This animosity had previously escalated to an alleged burglary and assault, in which Billini sustained a broken arm. Despite these alarming precedents, Moore, who is said to hail from the Carolinas and was residing at his mother’s apartment in the same building as Billini, was released on bail after the earlier assault.
At a press conference, NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny highlighted the intensifying conflict between Moore and Billini, culminating in the tragic deaths September event. Moore, donning a black outfit and a mask, is alleged to have approached Billini and Harvin from behind near Highbridge Park and shot them multiple times. Billini suffered fatal wounds to her head and neck, while Harvin was hit in the face and shoulder. Following this, Moore reportedly turned the gun on Zeus, fatally shooting the dog as well.
In the aftermath of her assault and the suspect’s subsequent release, Billini, who worked as an analyst for the state court system in the Bronx, reportedly feared for her life. She often requested Harvin’s company while walking her dog due to her fear of Moore, as per neighbors and police statements.
This incident has raised critical concerns regarding bail decisions and the enforcement of orders of protection, especially in cases involving repeated violent behaviors. The Manhattan District Attorney’s office, which had requested higher bail for Moore following his earlier arrest, is now faced with questions about judicial discretion in potentially dangerous situations.
As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of Billini and Harvin, with neighbors remembering Billini as a beloved and kind-hearted individual. Moore’s arrest, while bringing a measure of closure, has left a lasting impact on the residents of Washington Heights, challenging perceptions of safety and neighborly relations.