Puppy mill - 71 Dogs
Jordan, NY (US)

Incident Date: Wednesday, Jun 23, 2004
County: Onondaga

Disposition: Alleged

Alleged: Darlene Rocazella

Responding to an anonymus tip, animal control officers discovered 71 dogs living in filthy conditions at breeding facility.

Investigator Joshua Crane said that the property wasn't habitable for humans or animals, as there was garbage piled 6 to 8 inches deep on the floors and rodents were running around.
 
Most of the miniature schnauzers and coton de tulears had been severely neglected, with feces matted in their fur and teeth that had rotted to the gums.

The breeder, Darlene Rocazella, was charged with several counts of animal cruelty, her court date set for July 6th in the Brutus Town Court.
 
Officers are also investigating her for alleged violations of state animal breeding laws and consumer fraud.

The dogs are scattered at shelters in Mattydale and Albany and also at animal foster homes. Crane says it's costing the Finger Lakes SPCA a thousand dollars a day to take care of them.
Rocazella is scheduled to appear in Brutus Town Court on July 6th.

References

• wstm.com

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