Three Dogs Found Neglected During Newburgh Eviction, Owners Charged
Three Shih Tzus were discovered in severely matted and feces covered condition during an eviction at a Town of Newburgh residence today, and two residents were arrested on animal neglect charges. The arrests highlight local animal welfare responsibilities and raise questions for tenants and landlords about care for pets during housing transitions.
Orange County law enforcement arrested two people today after three Shih Tzus were found in apparent distress during an eviction at a Town of Newburgh home. The dogs were discovered with severely matted fur covered in feces and walking with an abnormal gait, prompting the involvement of animal control and veterinary staff.
The Orange County Sheriff’s Office identified the arrestees as 51 year old William Recinos and 38 year old Eva Tounas. Both were charged under New York Agriculture and Markets Law with three counts of overdriving, torturing and injuring animals, and with failure to provide proper sustenance. They were issued appearance tickets and are scheduled to return to Town of Newburgh Court at a later date. The sheriff’s office said the investigation is ongoing.
Town of Newburgh animal control removed the dogs and transported them to Newburgh Veterinary Hospital for evaluation and care. Officials described the animals as exhibiting signs of neglect and distress, conditions that drew immediate enforcement action during what was otherwise a routine eviction procedure. Local authorities are reviewing the circumstances that led to the dogs remaining in the residence and the level of care they received.
Sheriff Paul Arteta emphasized community responsibility for animals, noting there is no reason for animals to be neglected and urging owners who cannot care for pets to find them new homes. The sheriff’s message framed the incident as an avoidable welfare failure, and a reminder that pets depend on people for basic needs including bathing, feeding and grooming.
For Orange County residents the case underscores two practical issues. Tenants facing eviction should make specific plans for animal care or rehoming to avoid emergency situations. Landlords and property managers should be prepared to notify animal control when they encounter pets in unsafe conditions during a change in occupancy. Neighbors who suspect animal mistreatment are urged to contact local law enforcement or animal control so professionals can assess and intervene.
The sheriff’s office asked anyone with concerns about animal welfare to report them to local authorities as the inquiry into this incident continues.
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