Atlantic County prosecutor: Over 100 birds, dozens of roosters found in poor living conditions

The Atlantic County Prosecutor's Office has charged two residents with animal cruelty offenses.
Sigfredo Perez, 81, of Newtonville, and Queli Merlo, 49, of Hammonton, were both arrested and charged with animal cruelty offenses of owning and training animals for the purpose of fighting.
Atlantic County prosecutors say they conducted a search on a home in Buena where they found dozens of roosters trained to fight and over 100 other birds on the property in poor living conditions.
Prosecutors say the birds are currently under quarantine in accordance with state law pending the outcome of disease testing. Multiple dead birds in varying stages of decay were also found on the property.
Detectives also seized two dogs, five rabbits and several cats that were living in unsanitary conditions and in need of medical treatment, according to prosecutors.
Anyone with information can call the Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office at 609-909-7666.