Eighteen terrier-type dogs were rescued from severe neglect in Geneva last week, and two people now face felony animal cruelty charges, according to the Ontario County Humane Society.
Investigators say the case began on October 1 when a complaint was filed about malnourished dogs living in unsanitary conditions at a home on Avenue B. A search warrant was secured, and on October 2, officers entered the property with help from Geneva police, firefighters, and city code enforcement.
Inside a camper on the property, eight dogs were found amid heavy accumulations of feces, little food or water, and an overwhelming ammonia odor that required responders to use protective gear and breathing apparatus. Another ten dogs were discovered in the main house, also living in poor conditions.
Eight dead animals were also recovered from a freezer inside the home, authorities said.
The rescued dogs were taken to the Happy Tails shelter in Canandaigua for treatment. Shelter staff reported that all of the animals were infested with fleas, many were emaciated, and some had significant fur loss. Despite veterinary care, two of the dogs died the following night.
68-year-old RoseMarie Bruno-Hess, and 65-year-old Brian Hess, both of Geneva, were charged with aggravated animal cruelty, a felony. They were issued appearance tickets for Geneva City Court. Authorities said both surrendered ownership of the surviving dogs, which will remain in shelter care until they are healthy enough to be adopted.
Geneva’s Code Enforcement Office has since condemned the home and camper.
The Humane Society expressed gratitude to local police, firefighters, and code enforcement for their assistance in what it described as a critical rescue operation.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation, and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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