Evesham, NJ – On August 28, Evesham Police responded to a call in the 600 block of Main Street, where they discovered a severe case of animal cruelty. Fourteen living dogs, numerous cats and rabbits, and over 30 deceased dogs were found in the residence. The conditions were so poor that a juvenile living in the home was removed and is now in the care of the New Jersey Division of Child Protection & Permanency (DCP&P).
Officers transported nine dogs to the Mt. Laurel Animal Hospital for immediate care, with several in extremely poor health. One had to be euthanized. Preliminary information suggests as many as 100 dogs may have died in the home, some of whom were found on the premises or are suspected to be buried on the property.
Rebecca Halbach, 35, and Brandon Leconey, 32, were arrested and charged with endangering the welfare of a child (2nd degree) and animal cruelty (3rd degree). Leconey is currently in Burlington County Jail, while Halbach is being evaluated at a hospital for an unrelated medical condition. Both will be lodged pending a detention hearing at Burlington County Superior Court.
The investigation is ongoing, and additional charges will be filed. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Evesham Police Department at 856-983-1116.