Dead Dogs Found In Freezers In Feces-Covered Home, Over 150 Canines Rescued

A New Jersey woman was arrested Wednesday after authorities found remains of 44 dogs inside her freezers and more than 150 canines living in deplorable conditions in her home.

The shocking discovery was made by the New Jersey State Police (NJSP) when they were assisting the Burlington County Health Department in inspecting the Oakshade Road residence of 65-year-old Donna Roberts. She was charged with animal cruelty and was released pending a court date.

“When contact with the occupant raised concerns about the welfare of animals on the property, we sought a search warrant, which was then executed by the State Police,” Scott Coffina, Burlington County Prosecutor said, according to Facebook update regarding the incident posted by NJSP said. “We are appalled by the horrendous conditions these dogs were subjected to, and as a result I authorized charges against the property owner, Donna Roberts.”

Remains of 44 dogs were found stuffed inside plastic bags and hidden inside freezers throughout the house. In addition, many of responders reportedly felt dizzy and nauseous after breathing in the strong odor of animal feces and ammonia present in her house.

"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," said Colonel Patrick Callahan of the New Jersey State Police. "Troopers take an oath to protect and safeguard life, including the lives and well-being of pets, which can be vulnerable to abuse."

Of the dogs being confined to inhuman living conditions, four were found to be in critical state and hence, were transported to an emergency veterinary clinic. Several others were treated by shelter workers at the scene.

“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,” Callahan added.

The American Kennel Club (AKC) had suspended Roberts’ privileges for six months and fined her $500 in 2015 after she refused to hand over her dogs and their records for inspection. However, it was not clear what association Roberts' had with the AKC.

Her case was handed over to the Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office.

A local farm in New Jersey announced it will open a donation center for the dogs recovered from Roberts’ house by authorities.

“I will be opening the farm as a donation center. The box at the end of the driveway that normally collects pumpkins will now be emptied to hold supplies needed for the shelter,” J and M Farm posted on Facebook.

People were invited to donate puppy pads, wet food, grain free dry food and blankets.

“Please consider helping these poor babies. All animals should be treated with love and compassion,” the farm implored readers in the post.