32 dogs rescued, two found dead in multi-township investigation
Sussex County, NJ – Three people have been arrested following the abandonment of dozens of dogs across multiple communities in Sussex County, authorities announced Friday.
New Jersey State Police said troopers began receiving reports March 16 of dogs left in Stillwater, Lafayette, and Wantage townships. Responding officers discovered numerous small dogs abandoned in open crates without access to food or water.
Dozens of dogs found in crates across three towns
“Troopers found dozens of small dogs abandoned at each location in open crates without food or water,” officials said.
A coordinated response involving animal control agencies, the Sussex County Sheriff’s Office, and members of the public led to the rescue of 32 dogs. Authorities also confirmed that two dogs were found dead.
Key Points
- 32 dogs rescued after being abandoned in crates across three Sussex County towns
- Two dogs found dead during search efforts
- Three suspects arrested and charged with multiple counts of animal cruelty
Suspects identified, charges filed
Investigators identified three suspects on March 18: 19-year-old Joshua Ciemniecki, 74-year-old Robert Ciemniecki, and 30-year-old Kaila McNeill, all of Phillipsburg.
Joshua Ciemniecki and McNeill were each charged with two counts of third-degree animal cruelty and three counts of fourth-degree animal cruelty. Both were lodged in the Morris County Jail pending detention hearings.
Robert Ciemniecki was charged with one count of animal cruelty and released pending a future court appearance.
The rescued dogs are currently being treated by veterinary professionals and will be made available for adoption once medically cleared.