New Jersey Women Sentenced for Animal Cruelty After Rescue of 180 Pets

Two New Jersey women, Michele Nycz and Aimee Lonczak, were sentenced to nearly a year in jail after being convicted of animal cruelty for keeping about 180 dogs and cats in deplorable conditions at their home. The sentencing took place on August 16, 2024, following their guilty plea in June.

The investigation began in December 2022 when police responded to an anonymous tip about a possible puppy mill being operated out of the pair’s residence in Brick Township. Upon entering the home, officers were overwhelmed by the strong odors and unsanitary conditions, prompting the involvement of a Hazmat team. Rescuers discovered 129 dogs and 43 cats crammed in cages, many stacked on top of each other, along with two deceased dogs.

Nycz, 60, and Lonczak, 51, were sentenced to 364 days in Ocean County Jail, followed by a four-year probation. They are permanently barred from owning or working with animals. Additionally, Lonczak faced charges of child neglect related to the same investigation.

Despite their claims of running a “responsible rescue,” the reality of their operation was far from humane. Thankfully, many of the rescued animals have since been rehabilitated and placed in new homes.

Please sign this petition to demand Justice for Dogs Who Were Severely Neglected and Living in Filth!

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