2 Charged After More Than 300 Animals Euthanized In NJ: Cops

Two people were charged this week after more 300 animals were prematurely euthanized in New Jersey, prosecutors said.

Todd Bencivengo, 56, of North Hanover and Jeffrey Plunkett, 62, of Hamilton were charged with two counts of third-degree animal cruelty and one count of second-degree official misconduct, Mercer County Prosecutor Angelo Onofri announced on Friday.

Bencivengo is the former supervisor of the Hamilton Township Animal Shelter, while Plunkett is director of the Hamilton Township's Health Department. The incident allegedly happened at the Hamilton Township Animal Shelter.

The investigation began in August 2018 when authorities received two complaints by way of the state Division of Criminal Justice.

It was discovered that, between January 2016 and October 2018, approximately 236 cats and 93 dogs were euthanized before the animals were offered up for adoption, according to the MCPO. The state's minimum length is seven days.

There was insufficient evidence to establish any additional criminal charges even though the MCPO "uncovered multiple examples" of mismanagement,

Both men are set to appear in court on May 21.