EAST ORANGE, NJ — Acting Essex County Prosecutor Theodore N. Stephens II announced Dec. 12 that an East Orange couple has been charged with animal cruelty for leaving a mixed-breed dog and a black cat in deplorable conditions in their Park Avenue apartment.
Betty L. Freeman, 24, and Andrell M. Brown, 25, both of East Orange, were each charged with four counts of animal cruelty, two involving the dog and a two involving the cat.
According to Assistant Prosecutor Michele Miller, who is handling the case, East Orange police went to the location because there were complaints about the dog barking incessantly during the day and night. It is alleged that when officers entered the home, there was a strong gagging odor of waste and the apartment appeared to be unkempt.
It is further alleged that in the bathroom officers discovered an emaciated black-and-white mix-breed dog in a locked cage in the bathtub. The dog was reportedly standing in urine and feces. Also, in the bathroom was an emaciated black cat and a waste-filled litter box. There were also baby items in the apartment.
Both were charged with third-degree animal cruelty.
These are accusations. All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until they enter a guilty plea or are found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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