MANORVILLE, N.Y (1010 WINS) — A self-proclaimed animal sanctuary on Long Island was arraigned on 112 counts of animal neglect, Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney announced Friday.
According to the investigation, beginning in early January, Suffolk County detectives began visiting Double D Bar Ranch in Manorville almost daily after receiving numerous complaints about the welfare of animals on the property.
The complaints increased by the frigid, sub-zero temperatures that were consistently occurring at the time, officials said.
Once on the property, detectives allegedly observed hundreds of animals with improper shelter and no access to liquid water.
Among the animals on the property were a dog, cats, horses, cows, goats, sheep, an alpaca, pigs, chickens, turkeys, mules, peacocks, and assorted waterfowl.
Several animals allegedly had untreated medical conditions including dental disease, tumors, matting, untreated wounds, lameness, respiratory infections, arthritis, emaciation, swollen body parts, and overgrown hooves, claws, and nails. Some animals were allegedly found deceased.
Detectives spent several weeks working with various public and private partners to triage the animals and worked hundreds of hours on-premises personally tending to the animals’ needs, prosecutors said.
Dozens of animals of various species have since been removed and efforts to remediate the premises are continuing.
An appearance ticket was issued on Feb 11. Days later, on Feb. 13, Double D Bar Ranch was arraigned on 112 charges.
Prosecutors requested two court orders which were both granted, requiring Double D Bar Ranch to not take in any additional animals during the pendency of the case, and for law enforcement to continuously monitor the welfare of the animals that were still on the property.
Double D Bar Ranch is due back in court on Feb. 24,
"No matter what name it operates under, a ‘sanctuary’ is not a sanctuary when it becomes a place of suffering," D.A. Tierney said. "Our commitment to protecting animals is unwavering. When those who claim to provide care instead allow neglect and cruelty, we will take necessary action."
"This prosecution reflects our dedication to ensuring that no animal is left to suffer without food, water, shelter, or medical attention," he added.