- North Dakota, USA -
The Ward County Sheriff's Department announced the arrest of 21-years-old JIM MICHAEL VELEZ DIAZ and 19-years-old KATELYNN MARIE MERCIER (both pictured).
In a news release, the sheriff’s department said that after receiving a report of animal neglect from Minot Air Force Base Law Enforcement (MAFB LE), a deputy responded to the suspected residence on May 26, 2022.
Inside the home, MAFB LE and the deputy discovered two deceased dogs and six live dogs who appeared to be malnourished.
“The condition of the residence was found to be in disarray, with garbage and dried animal urine and feces all around the home,” stated the release.
DIAZ and MERCIER, who were identified as the furbabies’ guardians, voluntarily surrendered the live dogs who were taken to Souris Valley Animal Shelter for care.
On Friday, June 3, after consultation with a licensed veterinarian on the health of the six live dogs and cause of death of the two dead dogs, the Ward County Sheriff's Department obtained and served the arrest warrants for the couple.
DIAZ and MERCIER were each charged with five counts of animal cruelty , Class C Felony, and booked at the Ward County Detention Center.
Online records show they bonded out.
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