Atlantic City, NJ – An Atlantic City man has been indicted on multiple counts of animal cruelty after authorities say he tortured and killed stray cats in his neighborhood.
Edwin Sanabia, 26, was charged Tuesday, September 9, by an Atlantic County grand jury following an investigation by the Atlantic City Police Department. Officials said residents alerted police about possible abuse, prompting a probe by a Humane Law Enforcement Officer.
Investigators allege Sanabia lured abandoned cats into his residence with food before killing them and disposing of the remains in a dumpster. He is also accused of dragging, hitting, and punching cats, and striking others with sticks while they sheltered on a neighbor’s property.
The Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office thanked residents who came forward and urged the public to report suspected animal abuse.
“These charges are merely an accusation and not proof of guilt,” prosecutors said, emphasizing that Sanabia is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office at 609-909-7800, submit a tip online at ACPO.Tips, or call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-658-8477.
Key Points
- Edwin Sanabia, 26, of Atlantic City, was indicted on multiple counts of animal cruelty.
- Authorities say he abused and killed stray cats before discarding their remains.
- Prosecutors urge residents to report animal abuse to local authorities or Crime Stoppers.
Animal cruelty allegations have now brought a citywide spotlight on one Atlantic City neighborhood.