Animal Hoarders in Nevada Faced with Additional Charges Over 16 Dead Dogs
A senior couple, who have previously been found guilty of multiple instances of animal cruelty, were taken into custody recently in Las Vegas. This came after the discovery of 16 deceased dogs; eight were found in a hotel room and the remaining eight were at their Spring Valley, Nevada home.
The canines were in a pathetic condition; they were dirty, matted, and emaciated. Clark County District Attorney Steve Wolfson explained during a press briefing reported by the Las Vegas Sun, "The dogs were in absolutely miserable shape. They weren't provided the most rudimentary care, resulting in organ failure and death."
Timothy Miller and Carolyn Luke, now aged 79 and 72 respectively, were charged with 16 charges of animal cruelty.
The dogs at the hotel were found in terrible conditions. The media quoted Las Vegas TV station KSNV, which said, "The dead animals were piled on top of each other. There was a strong smell in the room, the floor was sticky, and the bed was covered in feces."
Police discovered a total of 30 dogs at the hotel. The couple also kept 15 dogs and additional guinea pigs at their residence. They also had tortoises, hamsters, and parrots. These animals were all housed at the couple's residence too.
The District Attorney expressed concern about the sheer number of animals involved in the alleged cruelty, "Animal cruelty in any form is unacceptable but this is particularly troubling given the quantity of animals in the situation."
If they are found guilty, both individuals may face a prison sentence of up to four years and a $5,000 fine for each of the 18 counts, according to authorities.
In another case, the couple faced charges after their car was stopped and searched by an officer in Boulder City, Nevada on March 29. The officer found 51 rabbits and guinea pigs, and tragically, 11 of them were already dead.
In April, a judge sentenced them to remain at home instead of serving jail time. They had to wear electronic bracelets to confirm they were abiding by court-mandated restrictions. Their 2.5-year sentences were suspended, but the authorities warned that should they break the conditions, they can be ordered to go to jail.
At the moment, the couple is not allowed to own any animals. Police will conduct random searches of their residence, businesses, and vehicles to ensure no creatures are present.
Both Miller and Luke entered no contest pleas on five counts of animal cruelty. In Boulder City, several other charges were dropped.
Nearly 90 of the surviving animals received assistance and shelter from the Las Vegas Animal Foundation. The staff will be attempting to find permanent homes for these animals.
Gina Greisen, the president of Nevada Voters for Animals, is reportedly the one who tipped off the authorities about the appalling living conditions of the animals.
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