Crime & Safety
Rash Of Abandoned Cats Tied To Pair In North Jersey, Authorities Say
Two people were seen abandoning four hairless cats in Hopatcong and are linked to similar cases in Morris and Sussex counties.
HOPATCONG, NJ — Police are investigating after four cats were found abandoned at a construction site in Hopatcong, in a case that closely mirrors several others reported in Sussex and Morris counties.
Police said a group of four hairless cats were found abandoned in a cardboard carrier at Lakeside Construction on Stanhope-Sparta Road during the early hours of Aug. 15, all needing medical attention.
The cats were brought to a nearby animal shelter for examination and care.
Find out what's happening in Hopatcong-Spartafor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Police have obtained surveillance footage of the pair accused of abandoning the animals and believe this may not be their first offense.
In the past week, police said similar incidents involving the same individuals, carriers, and breed of cats have been reported at both a Morris County and a Sussex County animal shelter.
Find out what's happening in Hopatcong-Spartafor free with the latest updates from Patch.
The duo have not been identified, but police said they have been seen driving a newer white Toyota Tundra.
Anyone with video footage or relevant information about these individuals is urged to contact the Hopatcong Police Department at 973-398-5000 or email Humane Law Enforcement Officer Gina DiMatteo at gdimatteo@hopatcongpolice.org.
Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.
