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WEST MILFORD, N.J. (AP) — A former official in a northern New Jersey town accused of poisoning a bird's nest has pleaded not guilty to animal cruelty charges.
The Record (http://bit.ly/1LWadom ) reports that Carlos Luaces, of Byram, entered the pleas during a court appearance this week.
The former head of the West Milford Public Works Department was fired from his position in August, shortly after the charges were brought against him.
Authorities say Luaces allegedly sprayed a robin's nest with pesticide, killing two chicks and destroying an egg in July. He's accused of knowingly poisoning a living animal and causing death, and could face five years in prison if convicted.
His lawyer says Luaces intends to contest the charges.
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