ASPCA Arrests Queens Resident for Neglecting, Starving Dog

NEW YORK—Humane Law Enforcement (HLE) agents of the ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) today arrested Queens resident Shakisha Codling for allegedly neglecting and starving her 1 ½-year-old female pit bull, named Zellie.

On March 26, 2012, ASPCA HLE agents responded to a complaint of a canine tied to a tree with no food or water at a residence on 97th Avenue in the Richmond Hill neighborhood of Queens. Agents encountered a thin dog collared with a padlock and tied to a tree on a short chain in the rear yard, with access to neither food nor water. Ms. Codling relinquished ownership of Zellie to the ASPCA, and she was transported by the agents to the ASPCA Animal Hospital for evaluation and treatment.

ASPCA veterinarians determined that Zellie had experienced discomfort and distress from her starved and dehydrated condition. Upon intake, Zellie weighed 32.1 pounds; after receiving treatment by ASPCA staff, she now weighs 48.5 pounds—a 51 percent increase. Zellie is recovering at the hospital and will eventually be made available for adoption.

Codling, 31, was arrested by ASPCA Special Investigator Mark MacDonald. She was charged with one count of misdemeanor animal cruelty. If convicted, she faces up to one year in jail and/or a $1,000 fine. Codling is due in Queens Criminal Court on July 31.

To report animal cruelty in New York City, contact the ASPCA’s Humane Law Enforcement department at (212) 876-7700, ext. 4450 or [email protected].

Zellie, before and after receiving treatment at the ASPCA Animal Hospital