A woman will undergo a psychiatric evaluation following the discovery of more than 40 dead animals buried in her Long Island yard.
In this Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2009 photo Sharon McDonough leaves Central Islip, NY family court after temporarily losing custody of six of her children. Authorities are trying to determine whether any of the 20 dead dogs found buried in McDonough's backyard might have been pets stolen from neighbors. (AP Photo/James Carbone)
Suffolk County Judge Paul Hensley said Monday that psychiatrists will determine whether Sharon McDonough is “an incapacitated person.” The results are due Friday.
McDonough pleaded not guilty last month to animal abuse after five dogs and a cat were found living in squalid conditions inside her Selden home. Authorities later uncovered 42 dead animals buried in her backyard, but have yet to upgrade charges.
McDonough’s adult son claims she forced her children to participate in some of the abuse. A Family Court Judge has removed custody of her six daughters, ranging from 18 months to 13.
Attorney James D’Angelo says McDonough is looking forward to clearing her name.
Copyright 2009 The Associated Press.
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