ISHPEMING, Mich. (WWJ) -- A domestic violence investigation at a home in the Upper Peninsula this week led to the arrest of two adults and the rescue of two young children and 17 animals from what police say was severe neglect.
According to Michigan State Police, troopers from the Negaunee Post responded to a domestic violence call at an Ishpeming Township home, shortly after 8 p.m. on Tuesday.
Investigators tracked the suspect to a residence in the City of Ishpeming, where they executed a search warrant.
Inside the home, troopers discovered two young children, 16 bloodhounds, and a cat living in "unsafe and unsanitary conditions."
Police noted that the residence was covered in animal feces and urine, with clear evidence that neither the children nor the animals were being properly cared for.
A man was arrested on charges of aggravated domestic violence, domestic violence, second-degree child abuse, and animal abuse. A woman living at the home was also arrested and charged with second-degree child abuse and animal abuse.
Both were booked into the Marquette County Jail.
Their names were not immediately released.
Child Protective Services coordinated the immediate removal of the children, who were placed with a relative for their safety.
The 16 dogs and the cat were taken in by the Upper Peninsula Animal Welfare Shelter (UPAWS) for medical evaluation and care. Because of this sudden emergency intake, UPAWS announced that the shelter has hit maximum capacity and is temporarily unable to accept stray dogs or owner surrenders until further notice.
Anyone who is considering adopting a pet is encouraged to check out UPAWS. For more information, including the pets currently ready for adoption, visit https://upaws.org or call 906-475-6661.
A man and a woman were arrested
A man and a woman were arrested
