Two Metcalfe Residents Charged with Animal Cruelty
A dog with a bad case of mange is being removed from the property by a Guardian of Rescue member. Photo | Guardians of Rescue
By PJ Martin
Editor, The Herald-News
In the ongoing case of the 262 animals rescued from a property on Breeding Road in Metcalfe County, the Kentucky State Police (KSP) has charged two residents with animal cruelty.
The investigation led by KSP Trooper Trent Tooley found that Natasha N. York, 36, and Michael W. York, 34, had been keeping more than 200 dogs on their property. Michael York was recently arrested and released on August 24th. We have found no record of arrest for Natasha York at this time.
As reported earlier, the dogs had not received required vaccinations, and no veterinary care, resulting in the animals being infested with multiple parasites, mange, respiratory illness, and an array of other serious health conditions, some needing immediate surgery.
The Guardians of Rescue, a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting the animals, was brought to the property by Kelly Basham, Director of Operations and Investigations, and over a period of days removed 231 dogs and 4 cats from the property.
In the KSP press release, Basham stated, “We are incredibly thankful for our relationship with the Kentucky State Police and for their continued partnership and support. Working together allows us to safely reach, remove, and protect animals who have suffered for far too long.”
Also, in the press release, Trooper Tooley stated, “My primary concern throughout this investigation was the welfare of these animals. They depend on people to provide them with proper care, and when that responsibility is neglected, they have no way to speak for themselves. Seeing the conditions some of these dogs were living in was difficult, but I’m proud we were able to take action and begin getting these animals the help they needed.”
The investigation has led to both individuals being charged with Cruelty to Animals, 2nd Degree, and Dogs to Be Vaccinated Against Rabies.
Several dogs were removed by other rescuers prior to the 231 removed by the Guardians of Rescue, bringing the total of animals removed from the property to 262.
The investigation remains ongoing. These individuals are being charged, but are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
The Herald-News will bring updates as they become available.
The Guardians of Rescue members who spent days removing animals from the York property. Photo | Guardians of Rescue
