WARSAW TWP., Pa. (EYT) — A local woman is facing felony animal cruelty and related charges after police seized 22 animals that were in “deplorable conditions” at her Warsaw Township property.
According to court documents, DuBois-based State Police filed criminal charges against 55-year-old Kelly Jo Wright, of Brockway, in District Judge Gregory M. Bazylak’s office on Wednesday, April 3.
According to a criminal complaint, PSP DuBois were dispatched around 4:07 p.m. on Friday, September 29, 2023. to 697 Eagles Nest Road, in Warsaw Township, Jefferson County, for a report of animal cruelty,
The complaint states Kelly Jo Wright surrendered two German Shepard puppies, approximately seven months old, to a Jefferson County Humane Officer. The dogs were noted to be underweight (15-20 lbs.), according to a known veterinarian.
It was also reported that seven other dogs were found at the Eagles Nest Road residence in deplorable conditions, including excessive fecal matter and standing water mixed with dog food, the complaint indicates.
Some dogs were “encrusted” with fecal matter and mud, and others appeared to have open lesions and fur loss, the complaint notes.
The humane officers also located approximately 30 horses standing in a limited, dirt-fenced area. Some horses appeared to be emaciated and many with hoof problems. One horse struggled to walk, according to the complaint.
On October 6, a search warrant of the property was approved and 22 animals—ranging from horses, donkeys, dogs, and cats—were seized from the residence.
Wright was charged with the following:
– Aggravated Cruelty to Animals – Causing SBI or Death, Felony 3
– Neglect of Animals – Shelter/Protection, Summary (22 counts)
– Neglect of Animals – Sustenance/Water, Summary (22 counts)
– Neglect of Animals – Vet Care, Summary (22 counts)
– Cruelty to Animals, Summary (22 counts)
A preliminary hearing is scheduled for May 31, at 9:30 a.m. with Judge Bazylak presiding.
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