A New Jersey mother and grandmother are facing serious charges after a child arrived at school with visible marks from an electric shock collar.
Kimberly Cruz-Feliciano, 30, and her mother, Sonia Feliciano, 59, were arrested after authorities discovered the shocking abuse. According to a criminal complaint, the child was forced to wear the collar at home, where it was allegedly used as punishment whenever Cruz-Feliciano became upset.
The mother reportedly admitted to the abuse and stated that she had her mother dispose of the device. However, the child informed authorities that the collar was kept in a bedroom alongside belongings of the family’s deceased dog. Even after the pet’s passing, the collar continued to be charged regularly.
The Cape May County Prosecutor’s Office revealed that Cruz-Feliciano also threatened further violence if the child reported the abuse. Neighbors expressed shock, with one saying, “It’s just sad. I hate to hear something like that, and it happened right here in our neighborhood.”
Cruz-Feliciano was arrested on March 18 and charged with aggravated assault, child endangerment, and additional offenses. She is currently being held at the Cape May County Correctional Center. Sonia Feliciano, accused of witnessing the abuse and tampering with evidence, was released pending court proceedings.
This disturbing case comes just months after an Indiana foster mother, Jennifer Lee Wilson, was sentenced to six years for the reckless homicide of her 10-year-old foster son, Dakota Stevens. The child had previously begged a neighbor to call the police due to ongoing abuse.
Authorities continue to investigate the New Jersey case, ensuring justice for the young victim.
