Northampton County District Attorney Stephen G. Baratta has announced that on April 9, Joseph Janko-Hudson of Easton entered a plea of guilty to the charges of Cruelty to Animals and Aggravated Cruelty to Animals.

On Feb. 8, the Easton Police Department responded to the 400 block of Northampton Street following a report that small dog treats containing embedded fishhooks had been discovered.

Upon reviewing city surveillance footage, officers observed a male walking discarding items from his pocket along the street; they returned and located additional dog treats embedded with fishhooks. Officers identified the suspect as Janko-Hudson, who was arrested.

On Feb. 17, police received a report that a dog ingested a treat containing a razor blade. These treats were discovered in the 300 block of Northampton Street, and the dog’s owner recovered additional treats in the area, matching those previously located in the 400 block. The dog involved suffered injury and required veterinary care, including two surgeries. The dog has since recovered. Janko-Hudson was additionally charged with one count of Aggravated Cruelty to Animals.

Janko-Hudson’s plea resulted in a sentence of one to two years in state prison, followed by three years of probation. Additionally, Janko-Hudson was ordered to pay restitution to the owner of the injured dog and is prohibited from owning or controlling animals for seven years.

All further inquiries should be directed to the Northampton County Office of the District Attorney.