Too often humane law enforcement agencies fail to pursue justice or protection for abused and neglected animals. Private citizens can pursue such cases and need not stand by idly while animals suffer. One such case occurred in W. Atco, NJ.
Two starving, emaciated dogs were left chained out side in freezing weather chained inside their dog crates on January 4, 2010.
One was euthanized that night because he was suffering so badly with a body temperature of only 94 degrees (normal being 101).
A private citizen who also happens to be the founder of NJ Aid for Animals, observed these freezing dying animals. All the agencies that were supposed to protect these animals failed to act.
Complaints were filed by Kathy McGuire and pursued in Winslow Municipal Court and despite obstacles and attempts to sabotage the case by certain officials, criminal convictions were obtained.
The persistence of a dedicated citizen was able to get justice for the animals involved and prevent further abuse and neglect.The abuser, Roy A. Martinez of W. Atco, NJ was convicted of two counts of animal cruelty on July 28 almost six months AFTER one of the dogs was euthanized.
The other dog was adopted at the local animal shelter.