Evesham, NJ – Evesham Police Officers arrested Rebecca Halbach, 35, and Brandon Leconey, 32, following a discovery of extreme animal cruelty and child endangerment at their residence on the 600 block of Main Street. The couple face second-degree child endangerment and third-degree animal cruelty charges.
Officers responded to a tip from a witness reporting sick and malnourished dogs at the property. On arrival, police found both living and deceased animals in the house. Conditions inside were described as extremely poor, with over 30 deceased dogs found throughout the residence.
Additionally, a juvenile was discovered living in the home. The child was removed by the police due to the unsafe conditions and is now under the care of the New Jersey Division of Child Protection & Permanency (DCP&P).
In total, officers found 14 living dogs, numerous cats and rabbits, and over 30 deceased dogs. Nine of the dogs were transported to Mt. Laurel Animal Hospital, with some in critical health. One dog had to be euthanized due to its condition. Preliminary investigation estimates suggest that as many as 100 dogs may have died in the home, either found on the property or suspected to have been buried there.
The Evesham Township Police Department is collaborating with the Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office in this ongoing investigation. Additional animal cruelty charges are expected to be filed once the actual number of deceased dogs is determined.
Leconey is currently in Burlington County Jail, while Halbach is being evaluated at a hospital for an unrelated medical condition. Both will remain in custody pending a detention hearing at the Burlington County Superior Court.