Women from Brick Township plead guilty to child neglect and animal cruelty
On June 26, 2024, Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer made a significant announcement regarding a case that unfolded in Brick Township. Michele Nycz, aged 60, from Brick Township, pleaded guilty to two counts of Animal Cruelty in front of the Honorable Guy P. Ryan, P.J.Cr.P., on June 24, 2024. Simultaneously, Aimee Lonczak, aged 51 and also from Brick Township, pleaded guilty to Child Neglect and two counts of Animal Cruelty in connection with the same investigation. The sentencing for both defendants is scheduled for August 16, 2024, where the State will seek 364 days in the Ocean County Jail as part of their probation terms, a lifelong prohibition on owning or working with animals, and non-animal-related community service.
The investigation, which commenced on December 2, 2022, originated from an anonymous complaint about a potential puppy mill operation at a residence on Arrowhead Park Drive in Brick Township. Upon arrival, officers detected a pungent odor emanating from the house and heard the sounds of distressed animals. Subsequent entry into the residence revealed deplorable conditions, including stacked animal crates housing dogs and cats. The situation was so dire that Hazmat teams had to intervene to remove 129 dogs, 43 cats, and the remains of two deceased dogs from the premises. Lonczak and Nycz, who cohabited with Lonczak’s 16-year-old child, were swiftly arrested and detained at the Ocean County Jail before being released under New Jersey’s Bail Reform system.
Assistant Prosecutor Victoria Veni, under the guidance of Prosecutor Billhimer, has been diligently handling the case on behalf of the State. The Brick Township Police Department and the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office are lauded for their unwavering commitment to the investigation that led to the defendants’ guilty pleas. The profound impact of this case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of upholding animal welfare laws and protecting the vulnerable in our communities.
In a statement, Prosecutor Billhimer expressed gratitude to all involved parties for their dedication to justice and ensuring the swift resolution of this distressing case. As the legal proceedings continue, the public remains vigilant in advocating for the rights and well-being of all animals, underscoring the need for stringent enforcement of laws against cruelty and neglect. The community’s response to this harrowing incident exemplifies a collective commitment to safeguarding the voiceless and holding offenders accountable to the fullest extent of the law.
