A Sound Beach couple accused of severely neglecting their dog pleaded not guilty to animal cruelty charges Friday, Oct. 30, as the animal continues to recover after being removed from their home.
Michael O’Brien, 39, and Jenecia O’Brien, 37, were arraigned in First District Court in Central Islip. Both were released on their own recognizance because the misdemeanor charges are not eligible for bail, according to the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office.
The couple was charged Oct. 12 following an investigation by the Suffolk County SPCA into the treatment of their five-year-old Coonhound-Boxer mix, Kobe.
Investigators alleged that the O’Briens failed to provide the dog with adequate food, water and veterinary care.
Read our previous coverage here.
When investigators examined Kobe, the dog weighed just 37 pounds and had sores consistent with prolonged pressure or confinement, according to the SPCA.
Kobe was brought to the Oct. 30 court proceeding by Michael Favor of Pitbulls and Addicts, an organization involved in the dog’s recovery.
The dog has gained weight since being removed from the Sound Beach home and continues to recover.
The arraignment marks the latest development in a case first announced by the Suffolk County SPCA on Oct. 13.
Both defendants maintain their not-guilty pleas. No conviction or sentencing has occurred.
Photo: Kobe, a five-year-old Coonhound-Boxer mix, weighed just 37 pounds when Suffolk County SPCA investigators examined him in an alleged animal neglect case involving a Sound Beach couple. (Suffolk County SPCA)
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