Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on February 20, 2019, Allison Konowitz, 36, of Tuckerton, NJ, was sentenced by the Honorable Linda G. Baxter, J.S.C., to sixty days in the Ocean County Jail for Animal Cruelty in violation of N.J.S.A. 4:22-17c(1).  Additionally, Konowitz was sentenced to two years probation and restitution in the amount of $1225.00.  She is also prohibited from possessing/owning any animals, nor may she be employed in any field related to animals.  The sentence was the result of a guilty plea to Animal Cruelty that Konowitz previously entered on December 19, 2018, at which time she admitted to purposely, knowingly, or recklessly causing bodily injury to a living animal by failing to provide the animal with necessary care, ultimately resulting in the animal’s death.

On September 3, 2018, Tuckerton Police observed several dogs running loose. The Police were able to secure one of the dogs which appeared to be extremely malnourished and wounded.  The officers observed the front door of a nearby residence open, with dogs coming and going freely.  Upon entering the residence, the officers found the conditions to be deplorable. The Health Department was notified and the residence was deemed uninhabitable.  Sixteen dogs were recovered from the residence and transported to the Ocean County Animal Facility in Stafford Township.  Sadly, one puppy had to be euthanized due to his condition.  The death of this animal resulted in Konowitz being charged with Animal Cruelty, convicted by guilty plea, and now sentenced to jail, probation, and restitution.

On a happier note, Prosecutor Billhimer is pleased to advise that the other fifteen puppies have been adopted by loving families.

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