90+ Dogs Removed From So-Called Animal Rescue Group In NJ, ASPCA Says

VERNON, NJ — Officials say they have charged two people after removing more than 90 maltreated dogs from a "self-described animal rescue group" in Sussex County and also finding dead dogs on the property.

Officials went to a Vernon Township home on Feb. 20 and discovered adult dogs and puppies of varying breeds, sizes, and ages living in "a filthy home." The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals assisted township police with removing animals from the property.

According to the ASPCA, the animals were living in "filthy conditions" among their own urine and feces, and many had dirty and severely matted coats. One of the dogs had nails matted into their fur, officials said.

Several of the dogs were living in cars, and there were two deceased dogs on the property, police officials added.

Officials charged owners of the property, Gizela Juric and Ronald Colgan, by criminal complaint. They face six counts of animal cruelty, based on the deceased dogs found on the property "as well as the failure to provide the animals with necessary care."

Juric was associated with the Angels for Animals Network, according to posts on Facebook and GoFundMe.

Officials said that she was previously charged with animal cruelty on Feb. 2, 2024 in connection with the death of a fifth dog in her care.

Additional animal cruelty charges are pending, authorities added, based on evidence collected by the ASPCA and the Sussex County Prosecutor's Office. Attorney information for the accused was not immediately available.

The ASPCA will transport the dogs to their Cruelty Recovery Center, where they will receive temporary shelter, as well as medical care and behavioral treatment.