MINOT, N.D. (KFGO) – Two people have been charged with five counts of animal cruelty after dead and malnourished dogs were found in their Minot Air Force Base residence.
According to a media release, on May 26, the Ward County Sheriff’s Office responded to reports of animal neglect by the Minot Air Force Base Law Enforcement (MAFBLE). The responding deputy, along with MAFBLE discovered two dead dogs inside the residence along with six others, several of which appeared malnourished.
The release said the condition of the residence was found to be in disarray, with garbage and dried animal urine and feces all around the home.
The owners of the animals were identified and voluntarily surrendered the dogs pending further investigation.
After consultation with a veterinarian on the health of the living dogs and cause of death of the other two, Jim Michael Velez Diaz, 21, and Katelynn Marie Mercier, 19, were arrested and booked in the Ward County Jail.
Both have been charged with five counts of felony animal cruelty.
Comments