WILLIAMSTOWN, NY — New York State Police arrested two people on Dec. 12 following an investigation into an animal welfare complaint.
Jason N. McGriff, 47, and Melissa A. McGriff, 42, both of Altmar, were each charged with seven counts of torturing or injuring animals or failure to provide sustenance, a Class A misdemeanor, and abandonment of animals, a Class A misdemeanor.
State Police responded to an animal welfare complaint on Sept. 1 at a residence on Kasoag Lake Road.
The landlord reported concerns regarding the condition of the apartment while the tenants were moving out.
Initial attempts by State Police to contact the tenants were unsuccessful.
After proper notice was provided, the landlord entered the residence, observed deceased animals and notified State Police.
Troopers later made contact with the tenants, identified as Jason N. McGriff and Melissa A. McGriff.
Both stated they had been staying at another location and denied the presence of animals at the residence.
The investigation determined that multiple animals were deceased inside the residence, including cats, dogs, rabbits and guinea pigs that had previously been in their care.
Both individuals were issued appearance tickets returnable to Oswego County CAP Court on Jan. 1, 2026, at 5:30 p.m.
