N.J. MOM ACCUSED OF FORCING CHILD TO WEAR DOG SHOCK COLLAR—FACES MULTIPLE CHARGES

A New Jersey mother has been arrested for allegedly forcing her child to wear a dog shock collar, authorities announced.

Kimberly Cruz-Feliciano, 30, of Cape May, and her mother, Sonia Feliciano, 59, were taken into custody after the child arrived at school on March 17 with visible injuries. Investigators determined the wounds came from an electric shock collar, which had belonged to the family’s deceased dog.

According to court documents, the child was forced to wear the collar “at all times in the home,” and it was regularly charged after the dog’s death. The child was also threatened with further abuse if they spoke out.

The Cape May County Prosecutor’s Office and local police launched a joint investigation, leading to multiple charges against Cruz-Feliciano, including aggravated assault, child endangerment, witness tampering, and hindering prosecution. She remains in custody pending court proceedings. Her mother was charged with evidence tampering and released ahead of her hearing.

Authorities had previously been called to the home, per WPVI. A neighbor told the outlet, "It's just sad. I hate to hear something like that."