New Jersey Mother Arrested for Allegedly Using Dog Shock Collar on Child

New Jersey Mother Arrested for Allegedly Using Dog Shock Collar on Child

A New Jersey mother has been charged after reportedly forcing her young child to wear a dog shock collar, resulting in visible injuries to the child’s neck, according to statements from local prosecutors.

Kimberly Cruz-Feliciano, 30, faces serious legal consequences with two counts of endangering the welfare of a child, two counts of aggravated assault, one count of witness tampering under threat of force, and one count of hindering. The Cape May County Prosecutor’s Office released this information in a recent news announcement.

The disturbing incident came to light on March 17, when the child attended Cape May City Elementary School bearing noticeable marks on their body. School officials promptly reported the injuries, which were later identified as being caused by a dog shock collar. Following the revelation, the Special Victims Unit of the prosecutor’s office teamed up with the Cape May City Police Department to investigate the matter. Cruz-Feliciano was arrested the very next day.

According to the investigation, Cruz-Feliciano also allegedly threatened further violence against the child should the abuse be reported. This threat intensified the urgency of the case and highlighted the dangers faced by vulnerable individuals.

Shock collars, which can emit electrical charges reaching up to 100 volts, pose significant risks to both pets and, in this case, children. The victim disclosed to authorities that the collar was stored in a bedroom alongside belongings of the family’s deceased dog. Disturbingly, the collar had reportedly been kept charged even after the pet’s death.

Cruz-Feliciano allegedly confessed to the abuse, revealing to law enforcement that she instructed her mother, 59-year-old Sonia Feliciano, to dispose of the collar. This admission raises questions about the extent of familial involvement in the disturbing situation.

The grandmother now faces charges of hindering and tampering with evidence but has been released on a summons pending further court sessions.

This incident comes amid growing concern for the safety of children within homes across the region. Officials emphasize the importance of vigilance against potential abuse and the necessity of reporting suspicious behavior.

In a statement, Cape May County Prosecutor Jeffery H. Sutherland expressed the commitment of the law enforcement community to safeguard children. He stated, “This case highlights the ongoing dedication of our law enforcement agencies to protecting the most vulnerable members of our community. We take all allegations of child abuse with the utmost seriousness, and we will continue to ensure that those responsible for such heinous acts are held fully accountable under the law.”

The response from community members has been one of shock and concern, underscoring the need for awareness and education on child welfare issues. As investigations continue, residents are encouraged to reflect on how they can support vulnerable families and report any signs of abuse.

As this case progresses through the legal system, many will be watching to see how the courts respond to such severe allegations. Child welfare advocates are urging the community to remain proactive in safeguarding children, emphasizing that every child’s well-being should be prioritized.

In addition to the ongoing legal proceedings, the broader implications of this case prompt discussions about parental responsibility, the use of disciplinary measures, and the potential for abuse in a home setting. Community members are called upon to foster safe environments for children and ensure that incidents like these are swiftly addressed.

The tragic circumstances surrounding this case serve as a stark reminder of the need for heightened awareness regarding child safety. As law enforcement continues to press forward with their investigation, the hope is that greater attention will be given to protecting children from abuse.

The outcomes of these legal proceedings could influence future cases involving child welfare and the necessary interventions required to ensure safety and justice for affected children.

This case will likely spark discussion on the legal ramifications of abusive disciplinary practices and the role community members can play in preventing such instances.

As this situation develops, a hopeful outcome is the implementation of more comprehensive child protection measures. Lawmakers and community leaders must advocate for stronger protections and education to prevent abuse in all forms.

It is crucial for communities to unite in addressing these serious issues. Together, they can work towards creating safer environments where children can thrive free from fear and harm. The hope remains that justice will not only be served in this specific case but that lessons learned will lead to broader protections for children in vulnerable situations.