Woman charged with 67 counts of animal neglect: 34 dogs, 11 cats, 9 rabbits, 7 birds, 5 rats, 1 tortoise

A Muscatine woman, Kelly Marie Adams, faces 67 counts of animal neglect after authorities discovered a multitude of animals, including dogs, cats, rabbits, and birds, living in deplorable conditions at her home.

Short Summary:

• Kelly Marie Adams charged with 67 counts of animal neglect
• Authorities rescued 34 dogs, 11 cats, 9 rabbits, 7 birds, and 5 rats
• Multiple animals found dead or in severe distress

The Muscatine County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant on June 17th at a property located off Highway 22 outside of Muscatine, Iowa. The search revealed a distressing scene of neglect and abuse. According to the media release, authorities seized numerous animals including 25 dogs, 11 cats, seven birds, five rats, and one dead tortoise from inside the house. Outside, they discovered nine dogs, eight rabbits, and one rabbit that had already succumbed to neglect.

The conditions described were harrowing. Many of the dogs were found in outdoor kennels or running freely with no access to drinkable water or adequate shelter. Inside the home, the situation was just as dire. Deputies noted a pervasive odor of ammonia due to animal urine, with floors littered with feces and urine. Numerous animals were confined within cramped kennels, often without food or water, and some kennels housed multiple dogs.

“The Galloway Township Police Department remains committed to investigating any report of animal cruelty in our community,” said Chief Officer Richard D. Barber.

Sadly, some of the rescued animals were in such poor condition that they later died while receiving veterinary care. For instance, a black and white rabbit was discovered infested with maggots and fleas, experiencing ear discharge and decaying skin. Another rabbit was suffering from similar infestations, while a 6-week-old tabby cat was emaciated and afflicted with severe diarrhea.

Keen investigators identified Kelly Marie Adams, 44, as the resident responsible for the severe neglect. Adams was apprehended on July 9th and is facing six counts of animal neglect resulting in serious injury or death, classified as aggravated misdemeanors, and 61 counts of animal neglect without injury, classified as simple misdemeanors. This comprehensive list of charges encapsulates the systemic nature of the neglect endured by the animals.

An affidavit from the arrest shares that some dogs were found hidden at a different property, indicating attempts by Adams to conceal the extent of the situation from authorities. On June 19th, two other dogs were also found to be hidden away.

The living conditions highlighted stark violations of necessary animal care. The state’s anti-cruelty laws clearly outline obligations for animal owners, emphasizing the need for appropriate food, water, shelter, and medical attention. These requirements are elaborated upon under Washington’s statutes, which stipulate categories for first and second-degree animal cruelty based on the severity and intent underlying the neglect.
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Nancy Santos, another individual involved in a similar case in Galloway Township, NJ, faced charges after Humane Law Enforcement officers found 29 cats and seven dogs under inhumane conditions at her residence. Multiple deceased animals were discovered inside a freezer, adding to the severity of the case. Santos was charged with 43 counts of animal neglect and has been placed in the Atlantic City Justice Facility awaiting trial.
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On the other side of the country, another alarming case was reported in DeLand, Florida. Ashley Boucher was arrested after being found negligent of her numerous pets. Deputies found dead animals, including a young Basset hound, two cats, three geckos, and two birds inside her home. Survivors, such as three malnourished dogs, a tortoise, snakes, lizards, and a tarantula, were removed and taken to Volusia County Animal Services for treatment.

Boucher admitted to being overwhelmed by her responsibilities but claimed she fed the animals regularly. Deputies, however, doubted her claims as untouched dog food cans were found in the home. Investigations revealed Boucher could financially support herself but chose not to correctly care for her pets. She now faces 20 counts of aggravated animal cruelty and eight counts of confinement without sufficient food, water, or exercise. Her bond is set at $54,000.

“Animal cruelty cases resonate deeply with our community,” stated Officer Richard D. Barber, “We are dedicated to ensuring justice for these innocent lives.”

These cases underline a significant gap in humane animal care and proper legal enforcement. It highlights the ongoing challenges faced by animal control authorities and underlines the necessity for more robust systems to address such issues. For those willing to learn more about responsible pet ownership and dealing with large rabbit breeds, check out our resources on giant-sized rabbits.

The rescue operations and subsequent care provided by organizations like It Takes a Village Animal Rescue and Resources out of Muscatine, with the assistance of local veterinarians, showcase the vital role that community and non-profit organizations play in addressing animal neglect.

“Addressing such severe cases of animal neglect requires a community effort,” commented a representative from It Takes a Village Animal Rescue and Resources. “Continued support and awareness can prevent these situations from arising.”

The enormity of Kelly Marie Adams’ case, coupled with other instances across the nation, throws a spotlight on the devastating consequences of animal neglect. Both legislative frameworks and public awareness must be strengthened to prevent such tragedies. Authorities’ action, community support, and comprehensive education remain critical for ensuring animal welfare.

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