Two Arrests Following Alleged Animal Abuse

JEFFERSON — On December 16, 2024, State Police of Princetown arrested Jonathan Summers, 46, of Jefferson, NY, for two counts of Criminal Possession of a Weapon.

On December 17, 2024, Summers and Jennifer A. Scott, 44, of Jefferson, NY, were each arrested for 39 counts of Agriculture & Market law- Overdriving, Torturing, and Injuring Animals; Failure to Provide Proper Sustenance.

On December 16, 2024, at about 1:55 p.m., Troopers responded to a residence in Jefferson, NY, for the reports of a property dispute.  During the investigation, Troopers determined Summers unlawfully possessed multiple firearms. Summers cannot legally possess firearms in New York State due to a previous felony conviction.  The firearms were seized, and Summer was transported to SP Cobleskill for processing. He was issued an appearance ticket returnable to the Jefferson Town Court on February 3, 2025, and released.

While at the residence during the initial investigation, Troopers observed numerous cats living in poor conditions.  Troopers returned the following day for further investigation into the animals' wellbeing.  Multiple ducks, chickens, and cats were located on the property shared by Summers and Scott. Both claimed ownership of the animals. The ducks and chickens were found to be in poor physical condition, with no access to food or water.  In addition, multiple deceased animals were located. The two ducks, fifteen chickens, and twenty-two cats were voluntarily surrendered and turned over to the care of the Susquehanna Animal Shelter and the Schoharie County Animal Shelter.

After the evaluation of the animals, Summers and Scott were arrested and transported to SP Cobleskill for processing. They were issued appearance tickets returnable to the Jefferson Town Court on February 3, 2025, and released.