- North Carolina, USA -
Cumberland County Sheriff Ennis W. Wright announced that on February 11, 2023, detectives arrested 30-years-old CHRISTINA AMBER RATLEY and 29-years-old JORDAN LEIGH DIDIER (both pictured), both of Fayetteville, who are now facing multiple charges of animal neglect and animal cruelty.
The arrest is the result of an investigation by the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office and Cumberland County Animal Services into a complaint of animal neglect and hoarding. Back in November 2022, both agencies discovered several animals in a home on 3215 Marigold Drive. Cumberland County Animal Services said in a press release that due to unsanitary conditions, staff removed fifty-four cats, nine dogs, and one Bearded Dragon. Sadly, two animals were found already deceased and were also removed.
Many of the cats were suffering from upper respiratory infections and several of the dogs and cats had ringworm fungal infections. The voiceless victims received medical treatment under the guidance of the Shelter Veterinarian.
Animal Services Director Elaine Smith said: “It is always heartbreaking to deal with animal hoarding, because usually the individuals involved start out with good intentions. Their lack of ability to see issues in animals under their care can result in very serious cases of neglect.”
According to a news release by Sheriff Wright, DIDIER and RATLEY were charged with fifty-eight counts of cruelty to animals and fifty-eight counts of misdemeanor conspiracy, felony kill animals by starvation, and felony conspiracy.
The duo were taken to the Cumberland County Detention Center and processed. DIDIER and RATLEY each received a $34,000 secured bond. Online records show that only DIDIER is still in custody.
Sheriff Wright encourages anyone who has information about this case to come forward.
You can either call the Cumberland County Sheriff's Office Property Crimes Detective L. Pongratz at (910) - 677 - 5458 or Crimestoppers at (910) 483-TIPS (8477).
Alternatively, if you prefer to submit your information electronically, please click here. Thank you!
I have sent out a few emails to inquire about the furvictims and if I receive a response, I will post an update.
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Thankfully those poor babies were removed from a horrible situation. I pray they all get better. RIP to the two for which help arrived too late.