The New York State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation has made arrests in connection with a case of animal neglect in Chenango County.
On January 22, approximately 56 animals were removed from a property on Mudge King Road in the town of North Norwich. During the execution of a search warrant, 30 horses, a pig, seven sheep, four goats, four chickens, seven dogs, and three cats were in need of immediate care and were transported to various animal rescue locations throughout the area. Over 12 dead animals were observed on the property including horses, goats, pigs, and chickens.
On February 14, New York State Police arrested 24-year-old Fiona Taylor, of Norwich, and on Tuesday, arrested 47-year-old Lauren McKendry, of Norwich.
Each of the women have been charged with 16 counts of the class “E” felony of the Agriculture Markets Law Aggravated Cruelty to Animals and 65 counts of the misdemeanor of the Agriculture Markets Law Overdriving, Torturing and Injuring Animals; Failure to Provide Proper Sustenance
Both women were issued appearance tickets and are scheduled to appear at the North Norwich Town Court on February 26.
The New York State Police would like to thank the Chenango County Sheriff’s Office, Chenango County Office of Emergency Management, the Susquehanna SPCA, Chenango County SPCA, the National Humane Society and numerous animal care professionals and advocates.
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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