Jersey City raids illegal breeding facility and seizes dogs, reptiles: authorities

Authorities seized at least a dozen animals, including a large Colombian boa constrictor and a Savannah monitor lizard, during a raid of a Jersey City home Wednesday that officials described as an illegal breeding facility.
Jersey City spokeswoman Kimberly Wallace-Scalcione said approximately seven dogs and five reptiles were removed from 146 Clendenny Ave. after a warrant was executed by an interdepartmental team led by Jersey City Prosecutor Jake Hudnut.
The Department of Health and Human Service’s Division of Animal Care and Control, Zoning, and Jersey City police participated, Wallace-Scalcione said.
“In 2018, the state moved animal welfare and abuse investigations under local law enforcement, and since then Jersey City has led statewide in this space,” said Hudnut, who confirmed the home was being used as an illegal dog breeding facility. “The cooperation between the health and police departments at the scene was remarkable, ensuring these animals are now safe, secure, and receiving the care they deserve.”
Seven mixed-breed pit bulls, two large bearded dragons and a large tortoise were also recovered from the home for welfare and potential abuse concerns, Wallace-Scalcione said.
Colombian boa constrictors grow to six to nine feet, are non-venomous and generally docile. The Savannah monitor can grow up to four feet, has sharp teeth and can use its tail to strike.
Two men, ages 34 and 39, received summonses for animal cruelty, specifically maintaining unsanitary living conditions for multiple canines and reptiles, as well as several state and local ordinance violations.
The animals are currently being examined and triaged at the city’s animal shelter. To adopt animals like the ones rescued from this illegal breeder go to JCNJ.org/adopt