Full Notification

Newark Public Safety Anthony F. Ambrose announced that police have arrested a 17-year old male from Newark and have secured warrants for two additional suspects in a horrific case of animal cruelty that occurred on Friday, June 7, 2019.

In an incident that made national headlines, residents in the vicinity of Columbia Avenue and Plymouth Street were awakened at 3 a.m. by a group of young people knocking over garbage cans. In the morning they saw the group had also damaged cars and discovered a dog in the vicinity had been beaten to death and set on fire.

“I commend detectives from the 6th Precinct for identifying those responsible for the outrageous torture of this defenseless animal,” Ambrose said. “I applaud those area residents who immediately contacted police when they discovered the fatally injured dog. Everyone has a right to feel safe in our neighborhoods, people as well as pets.”

The arrested 17-year old faces third degree charges of arson, animal cruelty, conspiracy and criminal mischief.

Kamal Loyal (pictured), 22, and a 15-year old female, both of Newark, have also been identified as suspects. Each is being sought on charges of third degree arson, animal cruelty, conspiracy and criminal mischief.

These charges are merely accusations. Each suspect is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.