Neglected dogs rescued

Three neglected dogs were rescued by Orange County Sheriff’s deputies on Thursday, May 15, in Newburgh.

Deputies Carney and King responded to a residence to complete an eviction when they found three Shih Tzu dogs exhibiting an abnormal gait and appearing in distress. All three dogs had severely matted and filty fur.

The deputies contacted the Town of Newburgh Animal Control Officer (ACO), who immediately responded and took custody of the dogs transporting them to the Newburgh Veterinary Hospital for evaluation. Owners of the dogs, William Recinos, 51, and Eva Tounas, 38, both of Newburgh, were arrested and charged under the New York Agriculture and Markets Law for three counts of AGM § 353— overdriving, torturing, and injuring animals; failure to provide proper sustenance, a class A misdemeanor. Recinos and Tounas were processed at the sheriff’s office and released with appearance tickets to return to the Town of Newburgh Court at a later date.

Sheriff Paul Arteta urges, “There is no reason for any animal to be neglected. Our pets depend on us for their well-being. It is your responsibility as a pet owner to care for them. Bathe them. Feed them. Groom them. And love them. If you cannot care for your animals, please find a new home for them. There are plenty of people who are willing to do it.”

A criminal charge is merely an allegation by the police that a defendant has committed a violation of the criminal law, and it is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the State of New York’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.