The emaciated dog, named “Patrick” by caretakers because he was discovered the day before St. Patrick’s Day, was found at the bottom of a trash compactor in the housing complex located at 195 First Street in Newark.

“This is a very sad case of a helpless dog left unattended,’’ said Acting Essex County Prosecutor Murray. “The information we have now indicates the defendant tied the dog to a railing and left the state of New Jersey for more than a week.’’

Complaints signed by the Honorable Diana Montes, a Newark Municipal Court judge, charged Curtis with abusing the dog by leaving him in situation were he was abused, neglected and deprived of adequate food.

The charges currently pending against Curtis are disorderly persons offenses. The maximum penalty is six months in jail on each count. The Essex County Prosecutor’s Office is investigating the case and will determine the final charges, and whether the matter remains in municipal court or is removed to Superior Court.

Currently, Curtis is in custody in Passaic County on unrelated charges. She is expected to be transferred to Essex County. Bail has been set at $10,000.

Curtis is expected to be arraigned on Thursday in Central Judicial Proceeding court, 5th Floor of Essex County Court House, 50 West Market Street, Newark.

These are accusations. All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until they plead guilty or are found guilty in a court of law.