Authorities said 38 neglected dogs have been found living in deplorable states in deplorable circumstances inside their California home.
Brandi Lee Jacobs, 42, appeared in Butte County Superior Court on Monday in the face of a felony count of 39 people after an officer found the dog during a welfare check at his Oroville residence last week. The Oroville Police Department and Code Enforcement responded following complaints from neighbors about the strong odor of numerous dog and animal waste. Upon arrival, officers encountered overwhelming odor and “deplorable” conditions, including several inches of feces covering the floor and walls.
Jacobs and her spouse, Jose Bartolo Martinez Jr., were jointly charged with 39 count felony animal cruelty after failing to provide the dog with proper food, water, shelter and protection from elements. Prosecutors said these conditions led to unnecessary suffering.
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After being arrested Monday, Jacobs will remain at Butte County Jail on a bail set at $585,000. Martinez was also arrested, but was mistakenly released due to an error in the documents. District Attorney Mike Ramsey said Orovir police are currently pursuing a new warrant to detain him.
Within the residence, officers recorded 38 live dogs. Many were packed into small cages, malnourished and showed signs of serious neglect. The dead puppy has been found inside the couple’s bedroom crate, police said in a press release.
The Northwest Association for the Prevention of Animal Cruelty (SPCA) responded to support the removal and care of animals. The nonprofit found that all dogs suffer from malnutrition, with some being affected by respiratory, skin or urinary infections. Despite the poor condition, authorities say all 38 dogs are expected to recover.
(Orobiru Police Station) (Orobiru Police Station) (Orobiru Police Station) (Orobiru Police Station) (Orobiru Police Station)
In an official statement, the Northwest SPCA said their current focus is to provide emergency medical care to rescued dogs. The organization is seeking financial donations to cover the animal’s medical costs, and notes that dogs are not yet available for adoption.
To alleviate overcrowding, the Northwest SPCA has abandoned adoption fees for all other animals in its care and plans to hold another free adoption event in the near future.
This case remains an active investigation. Authorities are asking anyone with additional information to contact the Oroville Police Department.
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