A Newark woman accused of killing her neighbor's dog after throwing the dog into oncoming traffic in 2011 is heading to trial.
The incident stemmed from a parking arrangement between Haniyyah Barnes, 28, and her neighbor, Nazirah Bey, who also lived on Fabyan Place in Newark. On Aug. 26, 2011 Bey's car was blocking the mother's car, which was parked in the driveway. Barnes immediately went to demand that Bey move her vehicle. As Barnes waited, Honey Bey - the Shih Tzu - began barking at Barnes resulting in Barnes grabbing the dog and throwing her into oncoming traffic, where she was struck and killed by a passing vehicle.
Today, Superior Court Judge Richard Sules set Aug. 31 to begin jury selection for Barnes' trial.
Barnes can face a maximum sentence of 10 years if convicted on all charges.
Barnes plead guilty to burglary, animal cruelty and theft charges but withdrew her guilty plea on Feb. 19.
Defense attorney alleges that the defendant was intoxicated therefore was not in the proper state of mind to commit the crime.