Hoarding 37 dogs in van Haines City, FL (US) Incident Date: Tuesday, Dec 11, 2001 County: Polk Local Map: available Disposition: Alleged Alleged: Laddie Mozell West

Case ID: 1046 Classification: Hoarding Animal: dog (non pit-bull) View more cases in FL (US) Login to Watch this Case

Laddie Mozell West, 61, who has no listed address in Polk County Sheriff's Office records, was roused from a van loaded with 37 dogs Saturday after a strong animal odor could be detected more than 100 feet from the vehicle.

When deputies removed her from the vehicle, they discovered the animals piled atop one another in less-than-favorable conditions. According to affidavits, it appeared the animals had not been released from the van since West's arrival in Haines City a day and a half prior to her arrest.

"Looking into the van, the dogs could be seen to be covered in urine and fecal matter. The dogs did not have sufficient space," stated arresting Officer Tom Grant. "There were also several cages which dogs were confined to. Several cages were piled onto one another, and other loose dogs were on top of them."

Detectives said it was doubtful she had let the animals out since she began her trek to Florida from Missouri, where she said her home had burned.

West told officers she was headed to Lake Wales, where she planned to live in the rear of a tractor trailer rig.

Polk County Animal Services was called to the scene to process the van and the animals, photographing and collecting evidence.

Because of the severity of the situation, animal services stated another 36 charges are pending against West in the case, and bond for her release has been set by Judge Susan Roberts at $10,000. She remained in the Polk County Jail on Monday afternoon, but attorneys had been calling on her behalf, said sources inside the facility.

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