Karmactive Staff
Four cats were found abandoned inside a mesh tunnel left on the sidewalk during rain on Summerfield Avenue in Asbury Park, New Jersey. Police responded, the Monmouth County SPCA took the animals in, and all four have since been adopted into permanent homes, according to the organization. Breyonna Owens, 33, now faces criminal charges.
Asbury Park Police officers responded to 1305 Summerfield Avenue after the mesh tunnel was reported on October 11. The four cats — named Delilah, Matisse, Autumn, and Morticia by shelter staff — received veterinary care at the Monmouth County SPCA for flea infestation and exposure following their time outside in wet conditions. All four were made available for adoption. Breyonna Owens, 33, was charged with four counts of animal cruelty and four counts of abandonment.
Abandoning domestic animals in public spaces is a criminal offense in New Jersey that can carry significant fines and a formal animal cruelty conviction. Pet owners facing housing transitions, financial pressure, or care emergencies can contact a municipal shelter, a rescue organization, or a surrender diversion program as alternatives to abandonment. New Jersey pet surrender and rehoming assistance programs lists county-level intake and diversion contacts across the state. Animal cruelty laws in New Jersey and how they're enforced explains the specific statutes and typical penalties.
All four cats have since been adopted, according to the Monmouth County SPCA. The organization attributed the quick placement to public attention through local news coverage and social media sharing.
The Monmouth County SPCA offers surrender assistance for owners unable to continue caring for an animal. Reaching out before abandonment ensures the animal receives immediate care and placement support.
What happened to the cats abandoned in a mesh tunnel in Asbury Park?
The four cats were treated by the Monmouth County SPCA for flea infestation and exposure. All four have since been adopted, according to the SPCA. Asbury Park Police charged Breyonna Owens, 33, with four counts of animal cruelty and four counts of abandonment.
The criminal case against Breyonna Owens is ongoing. A court date has been scheduled for later in October 2026.
