Pierce County Animal Control officers removed 54 animals from a Roy property Tuesday, Dec. 16, after a November complaint regarding possible illegal breeding and animal cruelty.
After an extensive investigation, the agency determined a warrant needed to be submitted, and 35 dogs, 18 cats and one large horse were removed from the property.
All animals will be treated and cared for at a local veterinarian, according to the Pierce County Sheriff’s Department. Once the animals are determined to be healthy, custody will be transferred to the Humane Society for Tacoma and Pierce County for further care.
The suspect, whose identity was not announced, was arrested and was said to be known to animal control officers from previous offenses and will be listed as a suspect verified in an illegal breeding and animal cruelty case. Charges will be forwarded to a prosecutor for review.
“An operation like this consists of hours of planning and preparing along with coordinating with the Humane Society and local vets,” PCSD wrote in a blog. “We are appreciative for our partnerships and would not be able to help these animals without them.”
