Two Face Animal Cruelty Charges

WOODBINE – Mercedes Price and Gemminique Dickerson of Woodbine face multiple animal cruelty charges.  
New Jersey SPCA (New Jersey Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) officers are involved with the case due to numerous complaints that were called in.  
According to court documents, charges include failing, as the owner, to provide necessary care to a living animal(s), specifically including shelter, drinking water and tethering.
Court documents state the defendants failed to appear on the Feb. 18 court date with the next hearing March 3.  
SPCA officers as well as officers from Shore Animal Control are expected to attend.
In light of the charges, Woodbine Mayor William Pikolycky commented that law enforcement and animal control are protecting the health and welfare of the community including pets.
Pikolycky added “All animal welfare complaints are taken seriously and sent to the State Police or animal control and are fully investigated.” 
The mayor reminded residents that the borough is included in the free straw bedding program, which offers straw to residents in winter months to keep animals warm. 
Also, the borough’s rabies clinic is free to residents and will be held March 5, from 10 a.m. to noon. 
For information call the Borough Clerk at 609-861-2153. 
To report animal welfare issues, contact State Police, animal control or the NJSPCA where all tips are anonymous.
The charges and allegations contained in the complaint are merely accusations and the defendants are considered innocent unless and until proven guilty. 
To contact Johanna Hovik, email jhovik@cmcherald.com.