Atlantic City Man Indicted On Multiple Counts, Animal Cruelty & Theft Charges

Tuesday, November 19, 2024, 10:15 A.M. ET. 2 Minute Read, By Art Fletcher: Englebrook Independent News,

ATLANTIC CITY, NJ.- On Wednesday, November 13, 2024, a Grand Jury sitting in Atlantic County, New Jersey, returned an indictment charging Jahlil McNeal, 23, of Atlantic City, New Jersey, on multiple counts of Animal Cruelty, Witness Tampering, and Theft offenses.

     According to Atlantic County Prosecutor William E. Reynolds, the charging information unsealed in the indictment alleges on two separate occasions, McNeal abandoned multiple pit bull mixed dogs by tossing them over the fence at the Humane Society of Atlantic County in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Both incidents occurred during the overnight hours when the Humane Society was closed.

     The first incident occurred on April 8, 2024, when McNeal threw three dogs over the fence. The second incident occurred on July 15, 2024, when McNeal tossed his pit bull mix, named Brenda, over the fence, causing her to fall and roll onto her side. When the animal shelter staff arrived, Brenda was found to have severe scarring from either chemical or temperature burns on a large section of her back. She was later treated by veterinary staff.

Videos Led To McNeal Being Identified

     Both incidents were captured on video security cameras, and it was determined that the same individual was responsible for both. The videos were posted to the Humane Society’s media page. Shortly after that, members of the public were able to assist in identifying McNeal as the individual throwing the dogs over the fence.

     Pursuant to an investigation by the Humane Society’s Law Enforcement Officer and the Atlantic City Police Department, McNeal was arrested and charged with multiple counts of animal cruelty for each of the four dogs he abandoned. Due to Brenda’s injuries, McNeal was indicted for failing to provide veterinary care. McNeal was charged with theft of services and witness tampering.

“The rules of the court require us to include a statement that states: The charges outlined in this publication are merely accusations, and the defendant and or defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt.”