A Newark man, Ibn Lloyd, 38, faces serious charges related to animal cruelty and drug distribution. Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin and the Division of Criminal Justice revealed that Lloyd allegedly used two pit bull-type dogs to attack a red-tail hawk and a stray cat. He is also accused of operating a controlled dangerous substance production facility.
Lloyd has been charged with violating the Endangered and Nongame Species Act, multiple counts of animal cruelty, maintaining or operating a controlled dangerous substance production facility, possession of controlled dangerous substances near school property, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Lloyd appeared in court on May 19, 2025, where he was detained.
Six co-defendants from Newark and Bloomfield were also charged with various drug offenses. "In the course of investigating drug trafficking in the city of Newark, law enforcement officers also uncovered evidence of extraordinary animal cruelty," stated Attorney General Platkin.
The investigation involved several agencies including the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Fish & Wildlife Conservation Police and New Jersey State Police. "We will continue to partner with law enforcement agencies across the state to prosecute complex cases that keep our communities safe," said DCJ Director Theresa L. Hilton.
Colonel Patrick J. Callahan emphasized the danger posed by Lloyd's actions: "From endangering wildlife to operating a drug production facility near a school... this case is a stark reminder of the critical importance of proactive law enforcement."
Assistant Commissioner Dave Golden from NJDEP Fish & Wildlife condemned the alleged acts against wildlife: "Every New Jerseyan should find this blatant disregard for the wellbeing of animals unacceptable."
The charges stem from videos posted on social media accounts allegedly belonging to Lloyd. These videos showed pit bull-type dogs attacking wildlife while being encouraged by an off-camera voice believed to be Lloyd's.
The investigation into drug distribution ran from November 2024 to May 2025, focusing on residences in Newark close to school property. A search warrant executed on May 2, 2025, led to the discovery of drugs and weapons at these locations.
Lloyd faces severe penalties if convicted; first-degree charges could result in up to 20 years in prison and fines up to $200,000. The case is being prosecuted by the DCJ Environmental Crimes Bureau under Deputy Attorney Generals Amy Sieminski and Brian Carney.
All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
