Former N.J. Coucilman To Face Animal Abuse Charges after leaving his dog outside in the freezing cold as it gave birth last year. 10 puppies frozen

CHESILHURST (CBS 3) ― A former New Jersey councilman is set to finally appear in court to face charges of animal cruelty after leaving his dog outside in the freezing cold as it gave birth last year.

After nearly a year of delays, former Chesilhurst Councilman Robert McCann is due in court on charges he left his pregnant Labrador Retriever Coco chained outside in 15-degree weather as she gave birth to 15 puppies last February.

Of the 15 newborn pups, only five survived. Officials said many of the puppies literally froze to death as they entered the world.

"The five puppies that did survive are healthy and happy today with very, very loving homes," said Kathy McGuire of N.J. Aid for Animals.

Coco has since been placed with another family.

McCann maintains he did nothing wrong in connection with the incident.