Charges expected against N.J. couple hoarding 276 dogs

Charges are expected to be filed against a New Jersey couple who had 276 dogs living in their bilevel home.

Monmouth County SPCA executive director and Police Chief Ross Licitra said he hopes to meet with the county prosecutor’s office this week to discuss the matter. Officials say the home was in “deplorable” condition.

Licitra said he doesn’t want the Howell couple sent to jail, noting they have cooperated with authorities. But he feels some form of punishment is needed, such as a ban or limit on how many animals they can own.

Licitra said the dogs are small breeds and are doing well and will be put up for adoption. But two have since given birth and officials say as many as 25 more may be pregnant.

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