Chester Springs Man Charged With Killing Dogs Speaks Out

"A lot of people said things about me who don't even know me," said 72-year old Gabriel Pilotti.

He spoke only to FOX 29 News to set the record straight about why he shot to death two dogs that roamed onto his property.

Showing some signs of remorse, he explained, "I regret my actions that took place last week. My over reaction is in the context of what took place here May of 2012 where two dogs brutally mutilated sheep and an alpaca on my property and adjoining neighbors properties."

Pilotti fired his single-shot shotgun at Bernese Mountain dogs Argus and Fiona last week. He's accused of shooting Argus in the head. Then, according to court documents, he reloaded to shoot Fiona as she tried to run away.

The dogs got out of their nearby yard through a hole in the fence and ended up a street over on Pilotti's property, where he keeps sheep that he says he was protecting.

On Friday, the Chester County District Attorney announced charges against Pilotti, which is what the family of Argus and Fiona had hoped for.

Pilotti also had a message for them as he stood alongside his lawyer outside his home Friday night.

"I'm in prayer for Mr. and Mrs. Brock and their 5 beautiful children. I'm sorry for the loss of their two beautiful dogs. I ask for their forgiveness and ask they make available time that I can ask each one of the members of their family for forgiveness of my actions last week," he said.

Pilotti is charged with animal cruelty and reckless endangerment.