Stafford Township, NJ – On September 22, 2025, Detective J. Conner of the Stafford Township Police Detective Bureau was called to the Southern Ocean County Animal Shelter by the Stafford Township Animal Control regarding an abandoned 11-year-old Pitbull Terrier found at a residence on Oak Tree Lane in Manahawkin, NJ. The dog was left behind following the eviction of its owner, Amanda L. Lenard, 49, of Manahawkin. 

Upon arrival, Detective Conner discovered the dog in severely neglected condition. During the investigation, authorities also located a deceased hedgehog within the residence. 

As a result of the investigation, Amanda Lenard has been issued a complaint summons for multiple offenses, including Cruelty to Animals (3rd degree, N.J.S.A. 4:22-17C), Cruelty to Animals (4th degree, N.J.S.A. 4:22-17C), and Abandoning a Domestic Animal (N.J.S.A. 4:22-20B).

As a reminder, the Stafford Township Police Department does not release arrest photos of defendants. All individuals are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.