According to a criminal complaint filed on February 26, 2026, through the office of Magisterial District Judge Edward Tarantelli in Frackville, Edward Al Conapitski Jr., 27, of Girardville, has been charged with Neglect of Animals – Veterinary Care (M3). The alleged offense date is March 27, 2025.
The charge stems from an investigation by the Pennsylvania State Police Troop L, Schuylkill Haven Patrol Unit.
Dog Reportedly Suffered From Untreated Medical Issues
According to the affidavit of probable cause, a state trooper responded on March 27, 2025, to a veterinary hospital for a report involving a sick canine.
The four-year-old pitbull, identified as Harlem, was initially brought to the veterinary facility in January 2025 by Conapitski. At that time, the dog was diagnosed with a urinary tract infection and an ear infection. A follow-up appointment was scheduled for two weeks later; however, the dog did not return for that visit.
In early March 2025, Harlem was brought back to the veterinary facility by a neighbor, where it was observed that the dog appeared pale. Lab work later showed that Harlem was anemic. Medication was prescribed, including a steroid and additional prescriptions intended to treat the condition.
Condition Allegedly Worsened
On March 27, 2025, Harlem was again brought to the veterinary facility by the neighbor in what was described as critical condition. According to the affidavit, the dog was extremely pale, weak, lethargic, and had whitish gums.
The veterinarian informed police that while the underlying medical condition was not caused by any direct physical harm, it had worsened due to the prescribed medications allegedly not being administered.
Police were told that the medication bottles appeared largely unused, leading to concerns that the dog was not receiving the prescribed treatment.
Refusal to Relinquish Dog
An Owner Relinquishment of Pet form was prepared, and state police attempted to have Conapitski surrender the dog. According to the complaint, he refused.
Due to Harlem’s critical condition, emergency treatment was provided, and the dog was transported to a specialty facility in Hershey for life-sustaining care.
Authorities were later notified that Harlem responded positively to treatment. The veterinary provider reportedly covered approximately $5,500 in medical costs associated with the emergency care.
Court Action Pending
Investigators noted they made several attempts to interview Conapitski but were unsuccessful.
Based on the findings of the investigation, a summons has been requested for Conapitski to answer to the charge in court.