For Immediate Release:  January 15, 2025

The Atlantic City Police Department began an investigation after receiving anonymous tips regarding an animal cruelty incident.

On December 1, 2024, the police department received a report from a citizen on tip411, the department’s anonymous texting service, regarding an animal cruelty incident that took place in the 200 block of north Chelsea Avenue.  Along with the report, a video was included that depicted several individuals walking down the street.  One male is observed picking up a cat and throwing it up into the air sending it crashing to the ground. 

An investigation was immediately initiated by Officer Matthew Schmidt, the department’s Humane Law Enforcement Officer.  Officer Schmidt began an attempt to locate the injured, or possibly deceased cat, but could not.  He did locate additional video surveillance of the same suspect throwing a different cat into the air on a different date.  Ultimately through the investigation, the suspect was identified as Ericxon Santos and he was criminally charged.

CHARGED:  Ericxon Santos, 18, of Atlantic City.

CHARGES:  Animal cruelty (two counts).

Santos was issued a summons with a future court date.  These charges are merely an accusation and not proof of guilt. In all criminal cases, a charged defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact the Atlantic City Police Department Criminal Investigations Unit at 609-347-5766 or submit a text anonymously to tip411 (847411). Begin the text with ACPD.

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Alert sent on 01/15/2025 at 8:47AM EST

To submit a tip via text message text ACPD and your tip to 847411

Alert delivered to the following groups: Atlantic City PD, Business Alerts, Press Releases, Westside Civic Association, Westside Homeowners Protective Association, Tanger Outlet, Chelsea Neighborhood Civic Association, Venice Park Civic Association, Marina District, Stanley Homes Village, First Ward Civic Association, Carver Hall, Chelsea Heights, Bungalow Park Civic Association, The Cove Condo Association, CRDA, Casino Reinvestment Development Authority, Security Directors , City Adminstration, Communications, and Atlantic City Boardwalk Committee

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