"On Monday, having deliberated for less than a day, the jury in the Cindy Bemis/ Cynthia Trapani trial returned a verdict of GUILTY on all charges ( 14 counts of animal cruelty for Bemis/ 6 counts for Trapani ) and Judge Kenneth Twissleman, ordered both directly to jail, denying all efforts on part of the defense to keep them out on bail until the sentencing June 17th.
Although this is the news we have all been waiting for, the direct result of this victory is that more than 200 dogs have been left behind on the Mojave compound, with a care taker who can barely take care of himself. Just as had been thought all along, Bemis and Trapani, have been collecting more animals while awaiting trial, most of which are unaltered. Those animals now need help. Animal control would prefer not to get involved. The rescue community, led by LCA, are trying to move the dogs out as quickly as possible.
Outside about 60 dogs are kenneled and another 100 or so roam free. They have formed packs and have areas they reside in, almost like gangs in a prison. Those packs consist mainly of Shepherd and Black Lab x packs, most of which are young dogs. There are pregnant dogs and dogs full of milk without puppies. Dogs who have made underground dens. Some seniors that need help. Some skin conditions but surprisingly, overall the dogs appear to be relatively healthy. The biggest problem will be the socializing of the dogs that have been living a feral life but the ones we are focused on right now are the dogs that can easily be placed or are in need of medical care. The majority of dogs are friendly.
The smell is what hits you first. The ammonia is so strong it makes you retch. The floors are torn up and every surface is covered and smeared with feces. Inside the house is where the smaller dogs and favorites are kept, including 10 cats. A lot of these dogs have probably never been outside. "
My shelter is going to be taking a few of these poor souls.
Wow! I am so happy that they found her guilty. I cannot see the pics though, they won't come up? Anywho- was a great story, I am glad they are getting those babies out of there...I really hate people!
ReplyDeleteThis is reminiscent of a Dog Town episode- though the conditions were not as bad- the caretaker/owner had been ill so had to abandon the dogs. A Dalmation had been badly attacked by other members of the "pack".
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