Three arrested on animal cruelty charges: Dozens of dogs found dumped, abandoned across Sussex County
(Image credit: Stillwater Area Volunteer Fire Company)
A disturbing story regarding an animal cruelty investigation that spanned three Sussex County townships has led to the arrest of three North Jersey residents after dozens of dogs were discovered abandoned and found in dire conditions.
The story begins on March 16 when New Jersey State Police received multiple reports of abandoned animals in Stillwater, Lafayette, and Wantage townships. Responding troopers encountered a troubling scene at each location, with dozens of small dogs left in open crates without access to food or water.
With assistance from local animal control agencies, the Sussex County Sheriff’s Office, and community members, responders rescued 32 dogs. Tragically, two of the abandoned animals were found dead during the search, underscoring the severity of the neglect.
The police investigation ultimately identified three suspects: Joshua Ciemniecki, 19; Robert Ciemniecki, 74; and Kaila McNeill, 30, all of Phillipsburg, New Jersey. The trio was taken into custody on March 18.
Joshua Ciemniecki and McNeill each face two counts of third-degree animal cruelty and three counts of fourth-degree animal cruelty. Both are being held at the Morris County Correctional Facility pending detention hearings. Robert Ciemniecki was charged with one count of animal cruelty and has been released pending a future court appearance.
Officials say the rescued dogs are currently being cared for by animal control organizations and local veterinary hospitals. The animals will be made available for adoption once they are medically cleared.
Authorities have not released any additional details about the motive behind abandoning the animals, but say the three suspects were identified through various investigative methods – and that numerous animal control agencies, the Sussex County Sheriff’s Office, and members of the public all assisted in rescuing the 32 dogs.
For now, the case remains under active review. For more on the story, see the video below.
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(Sources: New Jersey State Police, The Daily Record, ABC-7 New York)
Posted by Richard Webster, Ace News Today
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