The Chemung County Sheriff’s Office has arrested three people following an animal cruelty investigation in the Town of Big Flats.
Deputies say 30-year-old Tracey Itjen, of Elmira, along with 69-year-old Douglas J. Itjen and 67-year-old Darlene Itjen, both of Big Flats, were taken into custody on November 12th after authorities received a tip from the Chemung County Probation Department last month.
According to investigators, Tracey Itjen allegedly force-fed a small dog coins and thumbtacks over several months, from June through October. She’s been charged with Aggravated Cruelty to Animals, a felony, and is currently being held at the Chemung County Jail on a probation violation. She was issued an appearance ticket for Big Flats Town Court.
Douglas and Darlene Itjen were each charged with Overdriving, Torturing, and Injuring Animals and Failure to Provide Proper Sustenance, both misdemeanors. They were also given appearance tickets for court at a later date.
Three dogs were removed from the Antler Road home by Southern Tier Animal Control at the request of the Chemung County District Attorney’s Office and Sheriff’s Office.
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