Animal Cruelty Investigation Case In Lawrence County

According to a Pennsylvania State Police Troop D Press Release, an animal cruelty investigation report was file in Washington Township, Lawrence County last week.

According to the report, and on Saturday, January 23, 2021 at approximately 3:30 p.m., PA State Police assisted Lawrence County Humane Officer and responded to 535 Rabbit Haven Lane, just northeast of New Castle, in reference to an Animal cruelty complaint.

The residence was reported to be a single wide mobile home sitting on a basement. The initial investigation determined that the residence was deplorable, holding numerous dogs and other animals in unsanitary conditions inside and outside. Children and Youth Services assisted and removed (4) four school age juveniles from the residence. Numerous Animal Cruelty violations were observed by responding officers.

The following day, January 24, at approximately 1:30 p.m., PA State Police, Troop D, Animal Cruelty Liaison Officer and members of New Castle Station executed a Search Warrant at the mentioned location and found that the animals were being kept kennels and pet carriers throughout the residence with excessive amounts of feces and urine-soaked pads and bedding. In more than one instance, more than one dog per kennel. The residence was in complete disarray and the overwhelming odor could be smelled from outside. In addition, dogs were also found outside kennels and enclosures that had unsanitary conditions along with shelter issues. Temperate was approximately 21 degrees outside and 50 degrees inside the residence at the time of responding report.

A list of seizures includes 30 American Pit Bull Terrier breed dogs, 1 kitten, 2 gerbils, 6 feeder mice, 2 Ball python snakes and 3 dead Ball Python snakes.

All seized animals are being housed at an Animal rescue in Western Pennsylvania. All animals will receive a Veterinary check and treatment and the Rescue will provide overall care during this process.

Pending charges include Endangering Welfare of children, several counts of Animal Cruelty, Dog Law and Rabies Law violations will be filed at a later date.

The investigation pending, Individual Veterinary report(s) and Necropsy report(s).