On September 5, the Otsego County Sheriff's Office announced the arrest of Whitney Lee Bachanas of Milford, NY, after a welfare check at a Co Hwy 35 residence. Deputies found several abandoned, malnourished, mistreated, and deceased animals, including two critically emaciated dogs, who were taken to Cornell University animal hospital. A third dog, a turkey, and a quail were found dead, while two malnourished quails were rescued for rehabilitation.  One of the dogs, Oscar, has required extensive and lifesaving surgery to begin to repair the damage inflicted upon for which Whitney Lee Bachanas has been charged; tending veterinarians have expressed shock at how this dog is even alive when all tests indicate he should not be. The Susquehanna SPCA, Cornell University and Farm Friends Network assisted in this rescue and investigation.

This petition urges local courts to pursue the maximum penalties for Whitney Lee Bachanas, who is charged with animal cruelty, abandonment and neglect. ***We also call for a thorough investigation into the fate of several other animals previously in her care, currently and in the past. We also call for removal of any remaining animals in Whitney Lee Bachanas' custody, and that she be prohibited from owning animals in the future***. Justice must be served for the animals who suffered, and further harm must be prevented.

The deliberate abandonment and starvation of defenseless animals represents not only a clear violation of animal protection laws but also a profound breach of the ethical responsibility that all humans have to care for those who are vulnerable and dependent upon them. The emotional and physical suffering these animals endured in their final days is unimaginable, and their lives were needlessly lost due to extreme, prolonged, excruciating neglect.

This case goes beyond a mere violation of law; it is a moral offense. Society depends on the legal system to protect those who cannot speak for themselves, including animals. By imposing the maximum punishment allowable, you will send a powerful message that cruelty of this nature will not be tolerated - especially in Otsego County - and that those who commit such acts will face serious consequences. A strong sentence will also act as a deterrent to others who may consider committing similar offenses in the future.

We ask that the court weigh the gravity of this offense and ensure that justice is served for the innocent lives lost at the hands of Whitney Lee Bachanas. 

*This petition will be forwarded to Town of Milford NY Court Justices:

Hon. Deborah A. McMullen and Hon. Matthew D. Kane 

As well as Delaware County District Attorney Shawn J. Smith.*

*Reports indicate that Otsego County DA will not be participating. 

References:

[1} https://www.wktv.com/news/crime/milford-animal-rescue-update-dog-needs-surgery-after-starting-to-eat-again/article_a21f5452-76c6-11ef-81ad-2362a3daad3b.html

[2] Otsego County Sherriff's Office announcement: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/X6hVwAAmifrttLVN/

[3] https://www.wbng.com/2024/09/07/milford-woman-arrested-animal-cruelty/