WHITEHALL, NY — Three people were arrested Friday on multiple counts of animal cruelty following a months-long investigation into neglected animals at a property on State Route 40.
Jessica L. Austin, 43, of Granville, was charged with 22 counts of torturing or injuring animals/failure to provide sustenance under Agriculture and Markets Law 353-A.
Christopher J. McKinney, 43, of Granville, was charged with 24 counts of torturing or injuring animals/failure to provide sustenance under Agriculture and Markets Law 353-A.
Charles W. McKinney, 81, of Granville, was charged with four counts of torturing or injuring animals/failure to provide sustenance under Agriculture and Markets Law 353-A.
State Police received information on June 12 reporting numerous animals that appeared neglected and in need of veterinary care at the property.
Troopers executed a search warrant on Aug. 30, during which three animals — two dogs and one cat — were found to be in poor physical condition and were seized.
On Sept. 27, 28 additional animals were removed from the property due to poor physical and living conditions.
The additional animals included eight dogs, 19 cats and one Canadian goose.
The cats and dogs were turned over to the care of local veterinary offices.
The Canadian goose was released to the care of North Country Wild Care.
All three individuals surrendered themselves to State Police in Granville for processing.
They were each issued appearance tickets returnable to Whitehall Town Court on Oct. 27.
