.
National and local animal advocates teamed up with local police to recover hundreds of animals, including dogs, cats, horses and pigs from the Haven, a private, no-kill shelter in Raeford, North Carolina.
In a statement posted on Wednesday, the day of the rescue, Rickey called the operation one of the largest companion-animal rescues in ASPCA's 150-year history. At the time, the group said it recovered more than 270 dogs, 250 cats, 40 horses and several pigs from the 122-acre property. That number has since risen: The group now says it rescued at least 600 animals.
Advertisement
The shelter's owners, Stephen Joseph Spear and Linden Spear, were arrested and charged with several counts of cruelty to animals and possession of controlled substances, the Hoke County Sheriff's office said in a Wednesday statement.
Advertisement
Animals were kept in "filthy kennels, cages, outdoor pens and paddocks, many without protection from the elements," the Asheville Humane Society, which assisted in the rescue, said in a Facebook post. Many had untreated medical issues, including "open wounds, severe upper respiratory disease and emaciation."
Advertisement
A September inspection by the state Agriculture Department found several problems, including inadequate water and medical care, the Associated Press reported on Friday. ASPCA became involved at the request of the sheriff's office and the Agriculture Department, the group said.
Advertisement
Despite the raid, the Spears still have some defenders. Nancy Moore, at whose home the Spears are staying, told the AP that the shelter always seemed well-managed.
Advertisement
And one volunteer told local TV station WNCN that she was shocked by the news and felt the shelter provided adequate care.
© 2016 The Washington Post
COMMENTS
Advertisement
Mamata Banerjee's Sunday Ultimatum To CBI For Death Penalty In Rape-Murder How Extreme Weather Is Leading To Rise In Child Marriages In Pakistan Who Is Jasveen Sangha, "Ketamine Queen" Charged With Matthew Perry's Death "I Am Sorry": KTR Apologises For Remarks After Woman's Panel Begins Probe Hyderabad Restaurant Raids: Food Safety Violations Found In And Around DLF Cyber City, Gachibowli Russian Spies Were Stealing US Tech During Cold War. Then FBI Did This Track Latest News Live on NDTV.com and get news updates from India and around the world.