44 Dead Dogs Found In Freezers At South Jersey Home: Police

BURLINGTON COUNTY, NJ — A Burlington County woman has been charged with animal cruelty after 44 deceased dogs were found in freezer bags and stored in freezers throughout her home, New Jersey State Police said.

Another 130 dogs were found living in inhumane conditions during an inspection of 65-year-old Donna Roberts' Shamong home on Tuesday, Nov. 13. Four of those dogs were in critical condition.

The dogs in immediate danger were taken to an emergency veterinary clinic, while the others were evaluated and treated at the scene by animal shelter workers, police said.

The health inspectors made the discovery during a search of Roberts’ home on Oakshade Road in Shamong in accordance with a recently adopted county ordinance concerning the housing of animals, according to Burlington County Prosecutor Scott Coffina.

Upon arrival, they were greeted with a sickening smell and a grisly scene. The home was clouded with the smell of animal feces and ammonia, which police said caused several of the responders to experience dizziness and nausea.

After health inspectors contacted the county prosecutor’s office, it obtained a search warrant, which was then executed by state police. Roberts was subsequently charged with animal cruelty. She was released with a pending court date.

“Although the circumstances surrounding the demise of the 44 dogs that were discovered inside plastic bags in freezers remain under investigation, the deplorable and inhumane living conditions the rescued dogs were forced to endure is tragic,” Colonel Patrick Callahan of the New Jersey State Police said. “Troopers take an oath to protect and safeguard life, including the lives and well-being of pets, which can be vulnerable to abuse.”

“I would like to commend the State Police for their professionalism and compassion, and thank the Burlington County Health Department and the many volunteers for the outpouring of support to provide for the care for these dogs,” Coffina said.

See related: Man Wanted For 22 Counts Of Animal Abuse Hid In Secaucus Motel

The attached image of Donna Roberts was provided by New Jersey State Police.