Owner Falsely Claims Dogs Were Found As Strays

Name: Freya I. Roloff 
Age: 26 
Street: 915 Wadsworth Street 

City: Syracuse NY 13204 

 On May 16th 2026 at about 145pm this office received a report from Ms. Roloff claiming she had found two dogs in the area of Route 96 in the Town of Victor NY. At this time, she transported these two dogs to the shelter and signed paperwork turning them in as found and that she was not the owner. An investigation took place and it was found that the two dogs, named Jack and Rose (photo attached) (both approximately 10 year old miniature terriers) actually belonged to her and she wasn’t going to take them to her new residence she was moving into. 

On 9/2/26 at about 900am Ms. Roloff was located and arrested. She was charged with Animal Abandonment (2-counts), Falsely Reporting an Incident in the 3rd Degree and submitting a False Written Statement (misdemeanors). Ms. Roloff was issued an appearance ticket to appear in Hopewell Town Court at a later date and released. 

The Ontario County Sheriff’s Office assisted with this investigation. 

Both Jack and Rose are currently up for adoption. 

Two Dogs Living in Unsanitary Conditions in Victor

Name: Anthony Lupinetti 
Age: 45 
Street: 1 Berkshire Lane 
City: Victor, NY 14564 

 On 08/03/26 at about 613pm this office became involved with the New York State Police in an animal cruelty investigation involving 2 dogs that were found living in unsanitary conditions at 1 Berkshire Lane in the Town of Victor NY. This discovery was made after troopers responded to investigate an unrelated incident at this location. At this time this investigation showed that these dogs were living in feces and urine that was found throughout the residence. The dogs, a female German Shepherd and a male Boxer, were seized and transported to the shelter where they are receiving care. 

Mr. Lupinetti the dog’s owner and resident at this location was arrested and charged with Animal Cruelty (2 counts/misdemeanor). He was issued an appearance ticket and will appear in Victor Town Court at a later date. The Ontario County Sheriff’s Office also assisted in this incident. 

Our Mission is to Make Our Community a Better Place for 

People and Animals to Live Together. 

16 Dogs Found Living in Unsanitary Conditions in Canandaigua

Name: Donna P. Acker             
Age: 58
Street: 6154 Route 5&20
City: Canandaigua NY 14424

Name: David M. Acker             
Age: 64
Street: 6154 Route 5&20                                                        
City: Canandaigua NY 14424

On 7/23/26 at about 739pm this office became involved with the New York State Police and New York State Child Protective Services with animal cruelty incident involving 16 dogs that were found living in unsanitary conditions at 6154 Route 5&20 in the Town of Canandaigua NY.  At this time this investigation showed that these dogs were living in feces and urine throughout the residence.  The Canandaigua Town Code Enforcement Officer also responded to the scene and deemed the residence uninhabitable.  The dogs, Chihuahua mix, were seized and transported to the shelter where they are receiving care. 

Both MS. And Mr. Acker were arrested and charged with Animal Cruelty (16 counts/misdemeanor).  They were issued appearance tickets and will appear in Canandaigua Town Court at a later date. 

Man Arrested in Hoarding Case in Hopewell

Name: David Sugarman
Age: 73
Street: 1953 Mapleview Drive
City: Shortsville, NY 14548

On 7/21/26 at about 800am this office executed a search warrant at 1953 Mapleview Drive in the Town of Hopewell NY after receiving information that numerous cats were living in unsanitary conditions inside this residence. Upon entering this location with the assistance of the Ontario County Sheriff’s Office, at least 20 cats were found to be living in feces that covered the floor and furniture.   Tyvek suits were needed to enter the residence.  Several cats were removed and transported to the shelter.  The Town of Hopewell Code Enforcement Office also responded to the scene and deemed the residence uninhabitable.     

Mr. Sugarman the resident at this location was arrested and charged with Animal Cruelty (20 counts/misdemeanor).  He will appear in the Town of Hopewell Court at a later date to answer the charge.  At this time, he surrendered all of the cats to the shelter and they will be placed up for adoption when ready.    

The Ontario County Sheriff’s Office assisted with this investigation.

Ontario County Humane Society Statement on Adoption of Local Law Establishing an Animal Abuser Registry

The Ontario County Humane Society applauds the Ontario County Board of Supervisors for its consideration and anticipated adoption of the local law establishing an Animal Abuser Registry and prohibiting individuals convicted of certain misdemeanors or felony animal abuse offenses from owning, harboring, or possessing animals for a period of fifteen years.

This legislation represents an important step forward in protecting animals and people across Ontario County. While New York State law already criminalizes animal cruelty, this local law creates an additional safeguard designed to reduce repeat offenses, improve accountability, and help animal welfare organizations make informed and responsible placement decisions.

The Ontario County Humane Society has supported this effort from its earliest stages because we believe animal welfare is not solely an animal issue - it is a community issue. Preventing future abuse protects animals, strengthens public trust, and supports the work of law enforcement, shelters, veterinarians, rescue organizations, and responsible pet owners throughout our county.

Importantly, this law is focused on prevention rather than punishment. Inclusion in the registry is limited to individuals convicted of specified animal abuse crimes, ensuring due process protections are preserved while creating a mechanism to help prevent future harm.

We are grateful to the Ontario County Board of Supervisors, Sheriff’s Office, District Attorney’s Office, County Attorney, County Administration, and the many community members who helped move this initiative forward. Their collaborative work reflects a shared commitment to ensuring that animals in Ontario County are treated with dignity, compassion, and respect.

The Ontario County Humane Society remains committed to its mission of making our community a better place for people and animals to live together. Adoption of this law further strengthens that commitment and reinforces Ontario County’s position as a leader in animal welfare and responsible public policy.

Kurt M. Koczent
President, Board of Directors
Ontario County Humane Society

Ontario Count Humane Society Charges One Individual with Animal Cruelty

Name: Lee P. McKoy
Age: 53
Street: 8 Burrall Avenue
City: Geneva, NY 14456

 On June 26, 2026, at about 137pm, this office became involved in an animal cruelty investigation after Geneva Police Department officers responded to 8 Burrall Avenue for a complaint of a dog named Ash, a one-year-old Mastiff/Pitbull mix who was found confined in a metal kennel at this location. This kennel was reported to have been covered in urine and feces. On the first occasion 6/26/26, it was believed the dogs owner, Mr. McKoy who was in the process of moving, had cleaned Ash’s cage before officers arrived but was not present at this time. Mr. McKoy did not contact the officers at their request. On 6/29/26 the police department responded to this location again after another complaint was received into the living conditions the dog was living in and it appeared that Ash was not fed for three days. At this time Ash did not have any food or water and living with feces and urine in his kennel. At this time this office responded and seized Ash. He was transported to the shelter where he is being taken care of. 

Mr. McKoy was located on 7/4/26 and was arrested. He was charged with Animal Cruelty, Failure to Provide Food and Water to an Impounded Animal and with Animal Abandonment (all misdemeanors). He was issued an appearance ticket to appear in Geneva City Court at a later date and released. 

He also turned the animals (photo attached) over to the shelter and he will be placed up for adoption. 

Our Mission is to Make Our Community a Better Place for 

People and Animals to Live Together. 

Ontario County Humane Society,Charges one Individual with Animal Cruelty

Name:    Landin J. DeCook                                                                           
Age:        26                                                                                                                                                             
Street:   Budget Inn 440 NY-104 Rm #216
City:       Ontario NY 14519                                                  

On February 19, 2026, at about 340pm, the Ontario County Humane Society was contacted by the Geneva Police Department and asked to respond to 113 Exchange Street to assist them with an animal abandonment incident.  This was discovered during an eviction took place at this location.   At this time, two deceased snakes were located still inside their aquariums. On was an approximate 4-foot-long ball python and the other a two-foot-long corn snake.  Per the land owner, the tenant, Mr. DeCook was last seen at this location at the end of September 2025 and had not returned since that time.  The electric and water to the residence wasn’t on and there wasn’t any food or water left in the snakes’ aquariums.  There wasn’t any source of heat in the aquariums either.   After several attempts to locate Mr. DeCook were unsuccessful, a Warrant of Arrest, charging Mr. DeCook with Aggravated Animal Cruelty (2-counts)-(felony) was obtained from Ontario County Court Judge Reed.

On 6/23/26 at about 110am Mr. DeCook was located at the Budget Inn 440 NY-104 Ontario NY.  He was arrested and transported to the Ontario County Jail for Centralized Arraignment Part Court (CAP). 

The Ontario County Sheriff’s Office assisted with this arrest. 

Dog, two kittens abandoned in Canadice

 Name: Brett M. Kellar 
Age: 36
Street: 3046 Sunlight Lane 
City: Geneva NY 14456 

 On June 19, 2026, at about 1120am, this office became involved in an animal cruelty investigation after the new owner of a residence located 5526 County Road 36 in Town of Canadice, NY, reported finding that a dog was left behind inside the mobile home at this location. At this time this office entered the residence and found a dog, a cat and two kittens inside the residence. This residence was previously condemned and deemed unhabitable by the Town of Canadice Code Enforcement Office. In addition, the tenant, Mr. Kellar, was informed that he could not live at this location. The floor of the residence was found to be covered with animal feces and urine as well as rotting garbage. There was no food or water left for the animals either. They were all seized and transported to this shelter for evaluation. Their owner Mr. Kellar could not be located nor did he answer any phone calls. 

On 6/28/26 at about 530pm Mr. Kellar was located at 3046 Sunlight Lane in the Town of Geneva, NY. He was arrested and charged with Animal Cruelty (4-Counts/Misdemeanor), Failure to Provide Food and Water to an Impounded Animal (4-Counts/Misdemeanor) and with Animal Abandonment (4-Counts/Misdemeanor). He was issued an appearance ticket to appear in Canadice Town Court at a later date and released. He also turned the animals (photos attached) over to the shelter and they will be placed up for adoption. 

The Ontario County Sheriff’s Office assisted with this investigation. 

Geneva Man Charged with Aggravated Cruelty to Animals

 Name: Jason M. Bunnell 
Age: 52 
Street: 512 South Main Street 
City: Geneva NY 14456 

The Ontario County Humane Society, with assistance from the Geneva Police Department, investigated a report of a deceased dog located in an apartment at 512 South Main Street in the City of Geneva at after a suspicious condition incident was being investigated by the police department with lead them back to this location and then discovering the dog, with numerous gunshot wounds laying on the floor in the kitchen area of this residence. Another Golden Doodle named Beau was removed from the residence and appeared to be uninjured. Mr. Bunnell was watching the dogs for his father who is recovering from surgery. 

Winston will be transported to the Cornell Animal Diagnostic Center for a necropsy to confirm the cause of his death. 

As a result of this joint investigation, which showed no justifiable means to shoot the dog, Mr. Bunnell was arrested and charged with Animal Cruelty - (Class E Felony). He is currently being held in the Ontario County Jail on related charges from this incident. 

Our Mission is to Make Our Community a Better Place for People and Animals to Live Together. 

12 Animals Rescued from Apartment in Geneva

Name: Richard E. Farrell Jr.
Age: 50
Street: 282 Main Street Apt. 10
City: Geneva NY 14456

On December 12, 2025, at approximately 10:44 AM, the Ontario County Humane Society, supported by the Geneva Police Department and the Ontario County Sheriff’s Office, responded to an animal cruelty complaint at 282 Main Street in Geneva, NY. The complaint was initially reported to the Ontario County 911 Center.

Two individuals, who were at Mr. Farrell’s residence to install a utility, reported the complaint. They stated they witnessed Mr. Farrell allegedly strike his dog multiple times with an open hand and then punch her in the head with his fist. Upon entering the residence, they also observed unsanitary conditions and noted an unbearable odor.

During the subsequent investigation, authorities seized two dogs (a male Pitbull- “Duke” and a female Rottweiler- “Piper”) and ten cats from the apartment. The Geneva City Code Enforcement office was also contacted and responded, identifying several code violations at the location.

The seized animals were transported to the Ontario County Humane Society shelter for immediate evaluation and care by the shelter’s veterinary technician and veterinarian. Initial assessments indicated that both the dogs and cats were suffering from parasites, some cats were underweight, and had ear infections. The Rottweiler (Piper) did not appear to be injured. All animals are currently receiving ongoing medical attention as needed.

17 Animals Rescued, Two Individuals Charged with Animal Cruelty

Name: Sheila S. LaFleur
Age: 63
Address:
5132 Overlook Lane
Canandaigua NY 14424

Name: Robin S. Burr
Age: 61
Address:
5132 Overlook Lane
Canandaigua NY 14424

The Ontario County Humane Society, with assistance from the Ontario County Sheriff’s Office, executed a search warrant on December 2, 2025, at a residence located at 5132 Overlook Lane, in the Town of Canandaigua, NY. This action followed an investigation into an alleged animal neglect complaint initiated on November 29, 2025.

The initial complaint was reported by an Ohio Animal Rescue, which expressed concerns about unsanitary conditions and lack of medical care for animals at the location after retrieving two dogs that they had been fostering there.

During the warrant execution, a total of 14 dogs, including terrier, spaniel, and Pitbull mixes of various ages, were seized. Some dogs were found confined in metal cages, while others roamed freely within the residence. Additionally, three cats were rescued. Tragically, four deceased cats were discovered inside a kitchen freezer.

All seized animals were transported to the Ontario County Humane Society shelter for immediate evaluation and care by the shelter’s veterinary technician and veterinarian. Initial assessments revealed that the dogs and cats were flea ridden, suffering from fur loss, dental issues, and ear infections. All are currently receiving ongoing medical attention.

The four deceased cats will be transported to the Cornell Animal Diagnostic Center for necropsies to determine their cause of death. The Town of Canandaigua Code Enforcement Officer also deemed the residence uninhabitable due to severe hoarding conditions.

As a result of the investigation, Ms. LaFleur and Ms. Burr were both arrested and charged with Animal Cruelty - (Class A Misdemeanor). They were issued appearance tickets to appear in Canandaigua Town Court at a later date. They have since been released.

Our Mission is to Make Our Community a Better Place for People and Animals to Live Together.

Dog Found Abandoned in Phelps

Name: LaToyia Soler
Age: 34
Street: 55 Tremont Street
City: Geneva, NY 14456

Name: Mitchell Russell
Age: 36
Street: 55 Tremont Street
City: Geneva, NY 14456

On 8/12/25 at about 657am this office and the Ontario County Sheriff’s Office became involved in an animal complaint involving a 2–3-year-old female red Pit-Bull named Ivy, who was walking on the highway on Johnson Road in the Town of Phelps NY.  At this time, she would run away when anyone approached and reported sightings of her, in the areas of County Road 6, County Road 23, and McIvor Road, continued for the next 10 days.  Several private citizens assisted with tracking Ivy and she was eventually captured in a havahart trap set out for her.  Afterwards when she was transported to the shelter by this person whose trap she was in, Ivy was examined by a veterinarian and found to be at least 20 pounds underweight.  She remained at the shelter and was monitored by both the veterinarian and shelter vet technician.   

As this investigation continued it was reported that Ms. Soler and Mr. Russell had abandoned Ivy due to the fact that they were moving and not able to take her with them to their new residence.  They were unsuccessful in trying to rehome her. 

This investigation continued until enough evidence was gathered to charge both Ms. Soler and

Mr. Russell with Animal Abandonment.  In addition, neither were ever actively looking for Ivy or did they attempt to obtain her from the shelter after learning her whereabouts.

On October 12, at about 1100am both Ms. Soler and Mr. Russell were formally charged with Animal Abandonment and were issued appearance tickets to appear in Hopewell Town Court at later date. They both signed ownership of Ivy over to the shelter.   

Ivy continues to regain weight and once medically cleared she will be placed up for adoption.

18 Dogs Rescued in Animal Cruelty Case

Name: RoseMarie Bruno-Hess
Age: 68
Street: 48 Avenue B
City: Geneva, NY 14456

Name: Brian E. Hess
Age: 65
Street: 50 Avenue B
City: Geneva, NY 14456

Geneva, NY – October 6, 2025 – The Ontario County Humane Society, Inc. AKA Happy Tails, with crucial support from the Geneva Police Department, Geneva Fire Department, and Geneva Code Enforcement Office, successfully rescued 18 terrier-type dogs from severe neglect conditions in Geneva, NY, following an investigation that began on October 1, 2025.

Our office initiated an investigation on October 1 after receiving a complaint regarding several dogs appearing malnourished and living in unsanitary conditions at a residence on 50 Avenue B. As our investigation progressed, sufficient evidence was gathered to secure a search warrant, which was granted by Ontario County, Acting County Court Judge Frederick Reed.

On October 2, at approximately 9:00 AM, our officers, assisted by the Geneva Police Department, executed the warrant at the specified location. During the search, we discovered a camper trailer in the driveway. Inside, eight young dogs were found living amidst significant accumulations of dog feces on the floor, with very little food or water available. The strong ammonia odor within the camper was so pervasive that entry required specialized equipment, including Tyvek suits and self-contained breathing apparatus, which were generously provided by the Geneva Fire Department.

Entry was subsequently made into the main residence, where conditions were found to be similarly severe. Dog feces had accumulated on the floors throughout both the first and second levels. Ten additional dogs were located inside the home, also without access to food or water. In total, 18 terrier-type dogs, ranging from juveniles to young and older adults, were seized from the property. During the search, eight deceased animals were also discovered inside an unpowered freezer chest in the kitchen, in various states of decomposition. No other deceased animals were found in the house, camper, or outbuildings.

The rescued dogs were immediately transported to our shelter, where our veterinary technician conducted initial evaluations. All dogs were found to be flea-ridden, suffering from fur loss, and several were severely emaciated. They are now receiving ongoing comprehensive care from our dedicated vet tech and shelter veterinarian. Regrettably, despite the immediate and direct care provided by our veterinarian, two of the rescued dogs passed away on the night of October 3, 2025. The deceased animals, including those found in the freezer, will be sent to the Cornell Animal Diagnostic Center for necropsies to determine their cause of death.

In connection with this case, Mrs. Bruno-Hess and Mr. Hess, identified as the owners of the dogs and property, have both been charged with Aggravated Animal Cruelty (a felony). They have each been issued an appearance ticket to appear in Geneva City Court at a later date. The owners have also formally surrendered ownership of all dogs to the shelter. Our staff will continue to provide comprehensive care for the remaining dogs, and once they are healthy and rehabilitated, we look forward to placing them in loving adoptive homes. The City of Geneva Code Enforcement Office has since condemned both the house and the camper.

The Ontario County Humane Society, Inc. AKA Happy Tails extends its sincere gratitude to the Geneva Police Department, the Geneva Fire Department, and the City of Geneva Code Enforcement Office for their invaluable assistance and collaboration in this critical operation.

Dogs Abandoned on Labor Day Weekend

Person Involved: Alyssa L. Lyons
Age: 27
Address: 3260 Route 364 #43 Canandaigua, NY 14424

On 08/29/25 at about 912pm this office became involved in an animal cruelty complaint located at 3260 Route 364 Lot#43 in the Town of Canandaigua NY. At this time, it was alleged that Ms. Lyons had left 3 dogs in her residence without food and water while she went to Wisconsin for the Labor Day weekend. At this time it was thought that a neighbor was feeding the dogs and it was found that the next day he had not been. The Ontario County Humane Society and this office then responded and seized three dogs and two Geckos. They were all taken to the shelter.

On 9/3/25 at about 1200pm Ms. Lyons responded to the shelter to inquire about her dogs and geckos. At this time, she was arrested and was charged with Animal Cruelty (5-counts). She was issued an appearance ticket to appear in Canandaigua Town Court at a later date and released. The dogs and geckos remain at the animal shelter and are in good health.

Dog Struck in Backyard of Phelps Home

Person Involved: Alexis G. Heitmann
Age: 30
Address: 58 Clifton Street Phelps, NY

On 8/22/25 Animal Control Investigators received a complaint about a dog seen being struck numerous times in its backyard. The dog could be heard wailing as he was struck. The suspect is screaming at him to quit barking as she is striking him. A video of this incident was also obtained showing the incident had taken place on 8/18/25 at about 600pm. At this time the suspect, Ms. Heitmann was interviewed and then placed under arrest. She was charged with Animal Cruelty (misdemeanor). She was issued an appearance ticket to appear in Phelps Town Court at a later date and released. 

Bruce, an approximate 1 year old male Shepherd/Husky was seized and remains at the animal shelter. He is in good health and uninjured. The Phelps Police Department assisted with this investigation. 

False Claim of Stray Dog, Owner Abandonment

Person Involved:  Timothy M. Gardiner Jr. 
Age: 49
Address:  4345 Shortsville Road Lot#10 Shortsville NY 14548 

On July 15, 2025 at about 1040am, Mr. Gardiner came to the Ontario County Humane Society with a female German Shepherd dog, he claimed wandered into his yard when he was mowing and wouldn’t leave. At this time, he secured her and brought her to the Humane Society and reported her as a found dog. He then signed the necessary paperwork to turn her in as a found dog with an unknown owner. This dog was then checked for an implanted microchip and one was found. A check of the microchip number showed that the dog, named Luna, a 10-month-old female German Shepherd, was currently registered to Mr. Gardiner. The microchip company then sent him an alert notice that Luna was at the animal shelter. 

On this same date at about 543pm, Mr. Gardiner called the Ontario County 911, asking to pick up his dog who was brought to the Humane Society earlier by an unknown person and he received an alert that she was at this facility. He was given information on how to retrieve his dog the next. 

Animal Control Investigators assisted by Ontario County Deputies then interviewed him in regards to these incidents and Mr. Gardiner claimed that he turned his dog in due her being aggressive towards his grandchildren when they visit. He then tried to get his dog back after his girlfriend returned home and found the dog was missing. 

Mr. Gardiner was charged with Falsely Reporting an Incident in the 3rd Degree, Making a punishable false written statement, and Animal Abandonment (all misdemeanors). He was issued an appearance ticket to appear in Hopewell Town Court at a later date. 

He was also charged with Falsely Reporting an Incident in the 3rd degree, based on the call he made to the Ontario County 911 Center. He was issued an appearance ticket to appear in Manchester Town Court at a later date and released. 

Luna remains at the animal shelter and is in good health. 

Dog Abandoned at local Tops Grocery Store with Kidney Failure

Person Involved: Jason L. Flint 
Age: 54
Address:  31 Bellmawr Drive Rochester Ny 14624 

 On 5/17/25 at about 900pm the Ontario County Humane Society was called to secure a dog, a Chocolate Lab, that had wandered into the Tops Market at 6179 Route 96 in the Town of Farmington, NY. This dog was secured by Tops employees and New York State Police. He was transported to the shelter where he was scanned and found to have a microchip. The dog’s name was Duke and Animal Control Officers followed up with the name and address registered with the microchip company. Upon doing so it was learned that Duke was living with the owners estranged husband at 31 Bellmawr Drive Rochester NY. Video recordings were checked at the Tops Market and several surrounding businesses and Mr. Flint’s vehicle was seen driving behind the supermarket and the out from behind the building and parks on the east side of the parking lot where he and a female juvenile exit it and walk into the store for a few minutes. The dog is seen walking around from the east side of the building a short time later and into the store several times. As Mr. Flint and the juvenile walk out of the store the dog is walking towards them and they intentionally walk further away from him to avoid any contact. They walk the perimeter of the parking lot before returning to their vehicle and leaving the parking lot without Duke. He is secured by store employees who contacted the 911 Center. 

An arrest warrant was obtained from Judge Lew at the Farmington Town Court and executed on 7/16/25 at about 430pm after Mr. Flint turned himself in at the Ontario County Sheriff’s Office. He was charged with Animal Abandonment and Endangering the Welfare of a Child (both A Misdemeanors). Mr. Flint was arrested and transported to Centralized Arraignment Court. He was arraigned and released on his own recognizance. 

Duke was temporarily adopted to a witness to this incident. Unfortunately, he passed away from kidney failure on 6/17/25. The staff at the Ontario County Humane Society is grateful for this witness giving Duke a nice home before he passed. 

Dog Found in Geneva with Tumor

Person Involved:  Jennifer T. Washington 
Age: 49
Address:  43 Delancey Street Geneva NY 14456 

 On 4/20/25 at about 300pm this office was requested by the Geneva Police Department in securing a dog that was found wandering on the road and sidewalk in the area of Hamilton and Monroe Streets. Upon arrival the dog, an approximate 10-year-old female Pit-Bull, named Queen was located and secured. Upon examination she was found to have a large tumor in between her legs that interferes when she walks. The owner was identified, Ms. Johnson, she was contacted several times and refused to redeem Queen. Queen was examined by a local veterinarian utilized by this office and this tumor was found to be benign. On 6/5/25 at about 1130am Ms. Washington was arrested and charged with Animal Abandonment. She was issued an appearance ticket to appear in Geneva City Court and released. Ms. Washington relinquished ownership of Queen to this office and plans are being made to remove her tumor. She will then be placed up for adoption. 

Dog Left in Motel Room

Person Involved:  James J. Murray 
Age: 34
Address:  37 Stephens Street Clifton Springs NY 

 On 2/19/25 at about 1238pm this office received a call from the D&D Motel 4455 County Road 50 Canandaigua NY, reporting that a dog had been left in Room#14 at this location due to an arrest that took place on 2/17/25 by the Ontario County Sheriff's Office and the occupant and dog’s owner, Mr. Murray, was remanded to jail. At this time, Mr. Murray had left a female pit bull dog in is room #14 without anyone to take care of her. On 2/20/25 the dog was secured from the motel after staff workers were no longer able to take care of her and asked this office to remove her. She was brought to the shelter. On 2/24/25 Mr. Murray came into the shelter and advised how to retrieve his dog named Diamond. At this time, he walked out of the shelter and avoided any contact from this office since. On 5/27/25 he was located at 37 Stephens Street in the Village of Clifton Springs NY. Mr. Murray was arrested and charged with Animal Abandonment. He was issued an appearance ticket to appear in Hopewell Town Court at a later date and released. Diamond is healthy and remains at the shelter while this incident is adjudicated. 

Dog Found Dead from Blunt Force Trauma to Rib Cage and Lacerated Liver

Person Involved: James R. Kinney
Age: 66
Address: 60 Coachlight Circle Farmington, NY

On 4/17/25 at about 1115am this office became involved with an animal cruelty incident along with the Ontario County Humane Society, after Mr. Kinney contacted the 911 Center to report that a neighbor had poisoned his dog that he had now found deceased on the kitchen floor of his residence. Both agencies responded and secured the dog, a 2 ½ month old female Collie mix puppy named Goose. The following day Goose was taken by the Humane Society for a necropsy which was conducted by the Animal Health Diagnostic Lab at Cornell University. The results from this procedure showed that Goose had died from blunt force trauma to her rib cage which lacerated her liver. There weren’t any signs of poisoning. In addition, several witnesses came forward to report seeing Mr. Kinney dragging Goose by her leash causing her to scream as well. Based on this evidence Mr. Kinney was arrested and charged Aggravated Animal Cruelty. He will appear in Farmington Town Court at a later date to answer the charge. At this time two domestic shorthair cats were seized from the residence and are being evaluated at the shelter.