Neighbors’ complaints have prompted an investigation by the Humane Society of Delaware County into an alleged case of animal abuse and suspected cockfighting at a residence in Sunbury.
Delaware County Sheriff’s deputies, along with society staff, carried out a search warrant on Tuesday at 9442 Todd Street Road in Delaware County. The location is approximately 25 miles northwest of Delaware city.
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Jana Cassidy, the executive director of the society, stated in writing that they had received a complaint regarding a wounded dog. Upon accessing the property, their investigator noticed that several dogs were potentially injured and not receiving adequate veterinary care. Further investigation revealed other troubling concerns, such as indications of cockfighting.
Although the owner has not been charged with any crime, they voluntarily surrendered 90 animals, including nine dogs, six rabbits, and a variety of other animals such as chickens, ducks, turkeys, doves, parakeets, and other birds.
According to property records in Delaware County, the 11-acre land and 2,100-square-foot house are owned by Efrain and Maria Quezada. However, a self-employed construction worker was leasing the property, as per the authorities’ report.
In a subsequent interview with The Dispatch, Cassidy stated that the individual who claimed responsibility for the animals does not possess the property.
Cassidy emphasized that it is essential for all animals to have access to food, water, and shelter. While some of the animals that were not confiscated were receiving proper care, others were breeding without any attention.
The animals’ owner seemed to have little interest in controlling their populations. Their attitude conveyed that the animals were simply following their natural instincts and there was no need to interfere.
Ted and Jackie Colflesh, along with a team of volunteers, have provided shelter for animals that were not taken in by the Delaware County Dog Warden and other organizations. These animals are currently being housed in a trailer specifically designed for animal transportation.
The city has unfortunately experienced its second case of animal abuse this year.
In April, authorities charged a homeowner from Sunbury with 30 misdemeanor counts for violating companion animal laws. This was after the discovery of 40 dogs that were found chained up at the individual’s residence.
