South Jersey Mother Charged for Allegedly Using Dog Shock Collar on Child

According to Cape May Prosecutors Office, a mother and grandmother from Cape May, New Jersey, are confronting legal charges following allegations that a child endured abuse by being compelled to wear a dog shock collar.

Kimberly Cruz-Feliciano, aged 30, and her mother, Sonia Feliciano, aged 59, were taken into custody this week after the child was observed at Cape May City Elementary School with noticeable injuries, according to investigators.

As detailed in a criminal complaint, the child was made to wear the shock collar continuously while at home. It was allegedly employed as a punishment whenever Cruz-Feliciano became upset with the child.

While providing a statement to police, Cruz-Feliciano allegedly admitted to the abuse and stated she had her mother dispose of the collar.

Cruz-Feliciano was apprehended on Tuesday and faces charges of aggravated assault, endangering a child's welfare, among other offenses. She is currently detained at the Cape May County Correctional Center.

Sonia Feliciano, identified by authorities as a witness to the abuse, has been charged with hindering prosecution and tampering with evidence. She has been released while awaiting upcoming court proceedings.