By KATHY CHANG
Staff Writer
EDISON — The New Jersey Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (NJSPCA) has two new rides.
The NJSPCA, which is a nonprofit law enforcement agency responsible for investigating and, as appropriate, charging persons believed to have committed criminal animal abuse and/or neglect, received two decommissioned patrol cars from the Edison Police Department.
“With so many high-profile animal cruelty cases in the news recently across our state, Edison is proud to support the NJSPCA’s dedicated officers and agents who ensure the safety and welfare of animals and pets,” Police Chief Thomas Bryan said.
Just last month, 100 cats were discovered living and/or deceased inside an Iselin apartment, and 276 dogs were removed from a Howell Township, Monmouth County, home on June 3.
The two 2007 Ford Crown Victorias donated to NJSPCA were taken out of service recently after years of steady use along with 10 other marked and unmarked police vehicles, according to Police Lt. Robert Dudash Jr.
The donated vehicles were turned over to NJSPCA Cpl. Frank Rizzo and Officer Tim Kennedy.
“The vehicles we retired get heavy use and have high mileage; [however], the two cars donated to the SPCA were in reliable shape and still serviceable,” Dudash said.
The other 10 police vehicles were sold at a municipal auction along with seized and surplus property.
“These donations underscore Edison’s collaborative relationship with NJSPCA officers who work closely with our animal shelter staff to provide valuable community services,” said Mayor Thomas Lankey, who added that he hopes area residents and pet lovers consider private contributions to the NJSPCA and to the town’s animal shelter.
Unlike New Jersey’s other law enforcement agencies, the NJSPCA is a nonprofit organization and receives no funding from the state, any county or any municipality.
The agency’s services are funded solely by donations, grants, bequests, collected fines and penalties, and dues from the county SPCA chapters. Donation information is available at http://njspca.org.
