Three Neglected Dogs Rescued During Eviction; Owners Arrested in Orange County
Three Shih Tzu dogs were rescued and their owners arrested after deputies discovered the animals living in extremely poor conditions during an eviction in the Town of Newburgh, Orange County.
According to the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, the discovery occurred on Thursday, May 15, when two deputies arrived at the residence to conduct a court-ordered eviction. Inside the home, they found three Shih Tzus showing signs of visible distress and abnormal movement. The dogs were severely matted and covered in both dried and wet feces.
Deputies immediately contacted the Town of Newburgh Animal Control Officer, who arrived on the scene and took custody of the dogs. The animals were then transported to the Newburgh Veterinary Hospital for urgent evaluation and care.
The dogs’ owners — 51-year-old William Recinos and 38-year-old Eva Tounas, both of Newburgh — were arrested and charged with three counts of overdriving, torturing, and injuring animals, as well as failure to provide proper sustenance.
Both individuals were processed at the Orange County Sheriff’s Office and released with appearance tickets. They are expected to appear in Town of Newburgh Court at a later date.
In a statement issued following the arrests, Sheriff Paul Arteta emphasized the responsibility of pet ownership:
“There is no reason for any animal to be neglected. Our pets depend on us for their well-being. It is your responsibility as a pet owner to care for them — bathe them, feed them, groom them, and love them,” he said.
“If you cannot care for your animals, please find a new home for them. There are plenty of people who are willing to do it.”