Morris County woman admits submerging golden retriever puppy in pond, causing its death
WEST MILFORD TOWNSHIP, NJ (Passaic County) – A Morris County woman who drowned a golden retriever puppy that was found submerged and in a weighted cage in a West Milford pond has pleaded guilty to animal cruelty, according to Passaic County Prosecutor Camelia M. Valdes.
Tonya Fea of Jefferson Township pled guilty Thursday to third-degree animal cruelty before the Honorable Marilyn C. Clark, J.S.C., Valdes said.
Fea admitted under oath that on April 30, 2019, she submerged her golden retriever puppy in a pond located in West Milford disregarding whether the dog was alive at the time. She further admitted the puppy died because of her actions, Valdes said.
Pursuant to the terms of the plea agreement, the State has recommended that Fea be placed on probation for a period of 5 years with the condition that she serve 180 days in the Passaic County Jail. Under the terms of the plea, she will also be required to continue counseling, perform 100 days of community service, and refrain from owning dogs in the future, Valdes said.
Fea is scheduled to be sentenced on October 5, 2021, Valdes said.
The Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office asks anyone with additional information about this incident or other incidents regarding this individual to contact us on our tips line at 1-877-370-PCPO.
