East Northport Couple Charged with Animal Cruelty

An East Northport couple allowed their 10-year-old Greyhound to become severely emaciated, according to charges filed by the Suffolk County SPCA earlier this month.

Kathleen and Stephen Jackman were charged with misdemeanor animal cruelty for failure to provide proper sustenance and presented with a field appearance ticket at their home, after what SPCA Chief of Department Roy Gross said was an extensive investigation.

"Charlie" the Greyhound was found roaming the streets during a thunderstorm, according to the Long Island Press, and taken to an emergency veterinary clinic in Commack by an unnamed individual. He weighed 55 lbs. at the time and was treated for severe emaciation.

Gross said Charlie is now at a rescue center and putting on weight.

Stephen and Kathleen Jackman were away when Patch visited their home on Friday, though family members at the home said that the charges are unfounded and the dog was well cared for.

The Jackmans are due back in court in June. If found guilty, they face up to one year in prison or a $1000 fine and will be put on the Suffolk County Animal Abuser Registry for 10 years.

Stay tuned to Patch for updates on this story.