FREEHOLD — A borough resident was charged with eight counts of animal cruelty after the remains of numerous animals, including chickens, guinea hens and a slider turtle, were found in his yard last week, authorities said.
Jorge Badillo, 47, of 100 Center St., admitted he killed the animals in a Santeria sacrifice ritual, said Victor "Buddy'' Amato, chief of the Monmouth County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Santeria is a religion practiced in some parts of the Caribbean.
Amato said borough police Officer Thomas Duda and his K-9 partner, Rocky, noticed the remains while responding to an unrelated call on Thursday. Duda contacted the SPCA.
Duda and Amato went to the residence at 100 Center St. on Friday afternoon, and received permission from Badillo to search the yard, Amato said. They found numerous dead animals in various states of decomposition, as well as some live animals ready for slaughter and several Santeria altars, he said.
Amato said Badillo admitted sacrificing the animals.
Each count of animal cruelty carries a possible six-month jail term and fine of $1,000. The charges are to be heard in municipal court on April 19.
21 / March / 2011 / Asbury Park Press
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