GLOUCESTER, Va. (WAVY) — Authorities in Gloucester County have rescued 87 animals from what they describe as “disturbing and inhumane conditions” at a property in Hayes.
According to a release, the animals seized in Hayes, an unincorporated community in Gloucester County about 1.5 miles north-northwest of Gloucester Point, included dogs, cats, horses and other small animals. All of the animals were found in “unsanitary and inhumane conditions.”
Due to the condition the animals were found in, a court awarded the Gloucester County Animal Control full custody of all 87 animals, ensuring they will not be returned to their previous owner or owners. Criminal charges are pending, but officials are not releasing further details to protect the integrity of the investigation.
A search warrant was executed at the property in April following an investigation into suspected animal neglect and cruelty.
Officials say the animals were found living in unsanitary conditions that posed serious risks to their health and well-being. While most of the animals survived and are now receiving treatment, authorities confirmed that some did not make it due to the severity of their condition upon discovery.
“This collaboration will save many animals who cannot speak for themselves,” said Jacky Wilson, Chief Animal Control Officer. “They are now safe and receiving the care they need.”
Virginia State Police, the Office of the Attorney General, the Caroline County Sheriff’s Office, the King William Sheriff’s Office and Animal Shelter, the Richmond Animal Care & Control, the Virginia Animal Fighting Task Force and rescue partners all assisted with the case.
“I am extremely pleased with the hard work our Animal Control department put into this investigation,” Gloucester’s Deputy County Administrator Steve Wright said in a statement. “The countless hours of preparation and effort our small team dedicated to this case will not go unrecognized.”
For information on how to support Gloucester County Animal Control, report suspected animal cruelty or adopt one of the animals rescued from this operation, visit gloucesterva.gov/animal-control.
The investigation remains ongoing and no further information has been released.
“I would like to personally thank everyone involved, including our amazing partner veterinarians, law enforcement agencies, volunteers and caregivers for their swift coordination,” Gloucester County Chief Animal Control Officer Jacky Wilson said. “This collaboration will save many animals who cannot speak for themselves. They are now safe and receiving the care they need.”
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