Sussex County, NJ – A series of dog abandonment incidents across three municipalities on Monday has prompted a multi-agency investigation and a public appeal for information, with officials confirming that several small breed dogs were left behind in separate locations under concerning conditions. Some animals have been recovered, while efforts continue to locate others and ensure their safety.
Key Points
- Multiple small breed dogs were abandoned Monday in Stillwater, Lafayette, and Wantage
- Authorities are continuing rescue efforts as some animals remain unaccounted for
- A $500 reward is being offered for information leading to an arrest
The incidents were reported in Stillwater, Lafayette, and Wantage, where responders began recovering dogs believed to have been intentionally abandoned. Officials said the animals were discovered in different areas across the county, raising concerns about a coordinated act or repeated behavior by the same individual or group.
“These acts of abandonment are not only cruel but also illegal,” Sussex County Sheriff Michael Strada said in a statement released Tuesday. Law enforcement agencies are working jointly to identify those responsible and determine whether additional animals may still be at risk.
Rescue efforts underway across three towns
Animal rescue teams and local authorities have been canvassing affected areas since Monday, recovering several dogs and transporting them for care and evaluation. Officials have not released an exact number of animals involved but confirmed that the dogs are small breeds and were left without proper supervision or resources.
Authorities said efforts are ongoing to locate any remaining animals and ensure they are safely removed from potentially dangerous conditions. Once recovered, the dogs will be evaluated and placed through appropriate channels for care and potential adoption.
Crimestoppers reward offered for leads
The Sussex County Sheriff’s Crimestoppers program is offering a $500 reward for information that leads to the arrest of those responsible. Officials are urging anyone with knowledge of the incidents to come forward.
Tips can be submitted anonymously by calling 973-300-CRIME (2746) or through the sheriff’s office website. Investigators say community assistance may be critical in identifying suspects and preventing further incidents.
The investigation remains active, and authorities indicated that additional updates will be released as new information becomes available.