Full Notification

Middle Township, NJ – October 21, 2025 – Members of the Middle Township Police Department Major Crimes Unit, in coordination with the Cape May County Prosecutor’s Office, executed a court-authorized search warrant at a residence on Savannah Street in the Burleigh section of Middle Township as part of an animal cruelty investigation. 

The investigation resulted in the discovery of 18 cats and 2 dogs living in hazardous conditions inside the home. All animals were seized and transported to the Cape May County Animal Shelter for treatment and care.

As a result of the investigation, the following individuals were charged:
Sandra Klochak (61) – charged with:

• Fourth-degree animal cruelty (N.J.S.A. 4:22-17a(4))
• Disorderly persons offense for animal cruelty (N.J.S.A. 4:22-17.5(a)(2))
• Fourth-degree conspiracy (N.J.S.A. 2C:5-2a)

Yvonne Klochak (79) – charged with:

• Fourth-degree animal cruelty (N.J.S.A. 4:22-17a(4))
• Disorderly persons offense for animal cruelty (N.J.S.A. 4:22-17.5(a)(2))
• Fourth-degree conspiracy (N.J.S.A. 2C:5-2a)

Both individuals were processed and released on a summons.
Shore Animal Control and the Cape May County Animal Shelter assisted in the investigation and removal of the animals.

The charges are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.