32 dogs rescued after shocking abandonment across New Jersey towns
SUSSEX COUNTY, NJ — Three people have been arrested after dozens of dogs were found abandoned in crates without food or water across multiple New Jersey townships, authorities said.
State police said troopers responded March 16 to reports of abandoned animals in Stillwater, Lafayette, and Wantage, where they discovered groups of small dogs left in open crates.
In total, 32 dogs were rescued with the help of animal control agencies, the Sussex County Sheriff’s Office, and members of the public.
Two dogs were found dead at the scenes.
Authorities said the surviving animals are now receiving care from veterinary hospitals and will be placed for adoption once they are medically cleared.
Following an investigation, police identified three suspects — Joshua Ciemniecki, 19; Robert Ciemniecki, 74; and Kaila McNeill, 30, all of Phillipsburg.
Joshua Ciemniecki and McNeill were charged with multiple counts of animal cruelty and jailed pending a detention hearing. Robert Ciemniecki was also charged and released pending court.
Key Points
- 32 dogs were rescued after being abandoned in crates across three NJ towns
- Two dogs were found dead at the scene
- Three suspects were arrested and charged with animal cruelty