COAL TOWNSHIP - A local story that garnered national attention in 2012 was that of Harper, a 3-month-old brindle pit bull that was thrown down a bank behind the Springfield Cemetery, and its owners, who were subsequently charged with animal cruelty.
The puppy was found at the bottom of a cliff by a passerby on a cold January day. The puppy was barely breathing and couldn't move its legs, the person said.
Police said the dog's owners, Michael Wolfe, 21, and his then live-in girlfriend, Angelina Coladonato, of East Clay Street, Coal Township, originally said they had had a sick puppy but had given it to a friend. They later admitted to lying to police, saying they discussed a plan to dispose of the puppy after they thought it was dead.
Police said Wolfe took the canine, wrapped it in a towel and drove to the cemetery area, where he allegedly threw it down the embankment.
Magisterial District Judge John Gembic III received a petition with more than 15,000 signatures asking for the couple to receive the maximum sentence allowed by law.
Wolfe later pleaded guilty to misdemeanor charges of unsworn falsification to authorities and cruelty to animals. He was sentenced to two years probation, with the first 90 days under house arrest. He was also ordered to pay fines, court costs and restitution of the vet bill.
Coladonato pleased guilty to unsworn falsification and was also sentenced to two years probation, a $200 fine and court costs, restitution of Harper's medical care and community service.