Central Islip Woman Left Shattered Glass, Mothballs To Deter Animals: SPCA

CENTRAL ISLIP, NY — A Central Islip woman was charged with animal cruelty and several other offenses after investigators said she placed shattered glass and mothballs in common areas of an apartment complex to deter animals, putting residents and children at risk, according to the Suffolk County SPCA.

Joyce Hamlett, 61, was charged following an investigation into an incident that occurred in August 2026, SPCA Chief Roy Gross said.

Investigators determined that Hamlett placed pieces of shattered glass and mothballs in common areas of an apartment complex near her residence in an effort to prevent animals from entering the area, the SPCA said.

The areas were accessible to residents, including numerous children younger than 17, and the materials created a substantial risk of injury, according to investigators.

Hamlett was charged with one misdemeanor count of throwing a substance injurious to animals in a public place under New York State Agriculture and Markets Law.

She was also charged with reckless endangerment in the second degree, endangering the welfare of a child, criminal nuisance in the second degree and resisting arrest, all misdemeanors, as well as harassment in the second degree involving physical contact, a violation.

SPCA detectives issued Hamlett a field appearance ticket on Sept. 18. She is scheduled to be arraigned at First District Court in Central Islip on Oct. 8.

The SPCA did not provide additional details about the circumstances surrounding the resisting arrest and harassment charges or indicate whether any animals or residents were injured.

Anyone who witnesses suspected animal cruelty or neglect in Suffolk County can contact the Suffolk County SPCA at 631-382-7722.