STAFF REPORT
Glasgow News 1
Two Edmonton residents have been charged after Kentucky State Police say more than 200 dogs were found on their Metcalfe County property during an animal cruelty investigation.
KSP Post 15 in Columbia reported that a preliminary investigation found Michael W. York, 34, and Natasha N. York, 36, kept more than 200 dogs on their property.
According to troopers, many of the dogs had not received the required rabies vaccinations.
Investigators say several of the animals were suffering from dehydration, internal parasites, malnutrition and other health conditions, and one dog had a broken leg.
Trooper Trent Tooley conducted the investigation in collaboration with Guardians of Rescue, a nonprofit organization that focuses on protecting the well-being of animals.
Tooley said his primary concern throughout the investigation was the welfare of the animals, noting that they depend on people to provide proper care and have no way to speak for themselves.
He said seeing the conditions some of the dogs were living in was difficult, but he is proud that authorities were able to take action and begin getting the animals help.
As a result of the investigation, KSP said Michael and Natasha York were each charged with second-degree cruelty to animals and failure to vaccinate dogs against rabies.
Kelly Basham, director of operations and investigations for Guardians of Rescue, said accountability is a priority for the organization and thanked Kentucky State Police for their ongoing partnership and support.
She said working together allows them to safely reach, remove and protect animals who have suffered for a long time.
KSP Post 15 Captain Jeremy Smith said Tooley’s dedication to seeing the case through and advocating for the animals reflects the professionalism expected of state troopers.
Smith said he believes every animal deserves proper care and compassion and called the conditions uncovered in this investigation unacceptable.
He added that the dogs were completely dependent on their owners and deserved better, and said state police will continue to pursue the investigation and hold those responsible accountable.
KSP officials say the investigation remains ongoing.
Key Facts
– Kentucky State Police Post 15 charged two Edmonton residents after an animal cruelty investigation in Metcalfe County
– Investigators say more than 200 dogs were being kept on the property
– Many dogs reportedly lacked required rabies vaccinations
– Several dogs were found suffering from dehydration, parasites and malnutrition, and one had a broken leg
– Michael W. York, 34, and Natasha N. York, 36, are charged with second-degree cruelty to animals and failure to vaccinate dogs against rabies
– Guardians of Rescue assisted Trooper Trent Tooley with the investigation
– KSP officials say the investigation remains ongoing
