(source: @yaquianimalrescue on instagram)
55 counts of animal abuse • 55 counts of animal cruelty • 1 count of vulnerable adult abuse
On Sept 22nd, a search warrant was issued to April's home:
5 frozen dogs were found in her freezer next to food she would provide her elderly mother.
Kennels were stacked on top of each other, up to 7 feet high. Most of the dogs were in kennels laying in their own feces and urine.
NONE of the dogs (inside or outside) had access to water.
The majority of the special needs dogs were paralyzed. The vet advised that some of the dogs needed amputation of their legs or tail.
The vet noted that some of the conditions of the dogs were so poor that many would need to be humanely euthanized.
The ground and walls were covered with feces and urine. The clutter in the home made it difficult to walk around.
There was an overwhelming smell of ammonia, feces, and urine.
The fire department was called to check the air quality before entering. Those entering the home were required to wear self-contained breathing apparatus and certain rooms required ventilation before entering.
The dogs had injuries to their limbs, paws, tails, eyes, mouth, hind quarters, and genitals. Most dragged themselves around or shook due to neurological issues.
Dogs were found in the garage, living room, kitchen, bedrooms, and most corners of the home.
April's mother did not have a bed to sleep on as all the rooms were occupied by dogs. She informed detectives that she slept on the living room couch.
The officers determined there was insufficient food in the home.
April had control over all financials and her mother had no access to a telephone.
April stated that her mother only leaves the home once every two weeks.
April was read her Miranda rights at 2300 hours on 09/22/23. It was determined by detectives that she knowingly committed these crimes against the animals and her mother.
House was deemed condemned due to the condition of the home.