- New Jersey, USA -
~ Update: May 31, 2022
The Hunterdon County Sheriff's Office tells me that FEATHERSTON has his first court appearance scheduled for June 2, 2022, at 1:30 p.m.
FEATHERSTON's pre indictment conference will take place on July 15, 2022, at 1:30 p.m.
~ Original story:
The Hunterdon County Prosecutors Office announced that a joint investigation between multiple agencies led to the arrest of 52-years-old MICHAEL BRYAN FEATHERSTON (pictured), owner of Rooster's Rescue Foundation, a Flemington-based nonprofit organization.
According to a news release, on May 20, detectives from the Hunterdon County Prosecutor’s Office, Raritan Township Police Department, and the Department of Agriculture responded to 940 County Route 579, Flemington.
“A search of a home and other structures on the property uncovered 71 animals (equine, cows, goats, pigs, rooster, and sheep) believed to be neglected and in poor living conditions”, stated the release.
Sadly, officials also found several deceased animals.
All the live animals were removed, given proper medical attention, and surrendered to various rescue groups.
The search additionally led to the discovery of an assault rifle, large capacity magazines, and marijuana.
The news release stated that the “assault rifle is considered a ‘ghost gun’ because it has no serial number.”
On May 26, the Raritan Township Police Department arrested FEATHERSTON, of Flemington, and charged him with:
3rd degree cruelty to animals (bodily injury-failure to provide necessary care)
2nd degree unlawful possession of a weapon (assault rifle)
3rd degree purchasing firearm parts to manufacture a firearm without a serial number
4th degree prohibited weapons (large capacity magazines)
4th degree possession of CDS Marijuana
The Hunterdon County Prosecutors Office advised that this is an ongoing investigation, and anyone who has information about this case is encouraged to contact Hunterdon County Prosecutor’s Office Sergeant Jessica Neiber at (908) - 788 -1129.
Alternatively, if you wish to remain anonymous, you can call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-321-1000. Crime Stoppers pays cash rewards for valid tips. Thank you!
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Details may be removed or additional information may be provided in future should such sources report an update.
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