EASTON, Pa. – It’s been nearly a month since Easton Police arrested a man they say threw beef sticks stuffed with sharp objects on city sidewalks.
But police are warning dog owners to remain on the lookout, as more tampered treats are being found.
“I thought this was over with, but evidently it’s not,” said Danny Lee, a resident.
Lee and four-legged friend Mocha are changing up their walks around downtown Easton, after too close of a call.
“There was a tree there, and all sudden, Mocha just ‘boom’,” said Lee. “Here it was a fishhook.”
Lee says he was able to safely remove what he describes as a “slim-jim” stuffed with a fishhook, from Mocha’s mouth and the 5-year-old bloodhound has felt okay since.
“I can’t believe it happened me, you know, because I try to keep my eye on her closely,” said Lee.
Easton Police say dog owners should remain vigilant, as they continue to receive reports of beef sticks stuffed with fishhooks and razor blades, found along city sidewalks.
Easton Police Captain Salvatore Crisafulli said the items may be more noticeable with the snow melting.
“Most recently, they appeared weathered, and the food item has been severely decayed. We don’t believe it’s a copycat. We believe they were from the same individual,” said Crisafulli.
Last month, Joseph Janko-Hudson was taken into custody on animal cruelty charges.
Surveillance video helped investigators identify him.
“We believe his actions were isolated to areas around that 400 block of Northampton Street, the 200 and 300 blocks of Pine Street. We just ask residents to be alert,” said Crisafulli “I don’t want to see any more animals be hurt.”
In the meantime, Lee says he will keep Mocha extra close when they take walks.
“It’s just unbelievable,” said Lee. “I’m still really scared of it.”
Lee says he gave the fishhook to police who properly disposed of the item.
Police say there is no word on Janko-Hudson’s motive, and his preliminary hearing has been continued.