A Doyline woman faces 72 counts of aggravated animal cruelty after Webster Parish Sheriff’s deputies linked her to the dumping of more than 20 dogs on a rural road south of Doyline.
Kimberly B. Crowley, 58, was taken into custody Thursday afternoon after deputies followed evidence to her mobile home in the 300 block of Stable Drive. Sheriff Jason Parker said Crowley remains in the parish jail with no bond set.
The investigation began Sunday when deputies and animal control officers spent several hours rounding up between 20 and 25 dogs abandoned on Dement Road. Authorities managed to capture all but four or five of the animals and continue efforts to locate the remaining strays.
Parker said the dogs ranged in size and age and were transported to a veterinarian for treatment and observation. An animal rescue group in Springhill has since taken them in.
“One of our concerns was the health of the animals, and we delivered them to a vet who helps us when needed,” Parker said. “It’s good that the rescue group will see to it they’re fed and housed until something positive can be done.”
Deputies continued their investigation and traced the abandoned dogs back to Crowley’s property. When they arrived at her residence, they discovered approximately 60 more dogs of all sizes and ages, confined in cages inside the home. Many were reportedly living in inhumane conditions, with some cages holding multiple large dogs without food or water.
“There was urine and feces everywhere, and some of the animals were in cages without food or water,” Parker said. “And there were people living in this place with all these animals. I don’t think I’ve seen this type of condition before.”
Investigators believe Crowley was operating an unlicensed “puppy mill” and had been selling dogs through social media. When confronted with evidence, Parker said Crowley asked if she could pay a fine to make the matter go away.
“Major Hayden’s answer wasn’t what this person wanted to hear,” Parker said. “He informed her that she absolutely was not getting off with a fine. She was going to be taken into custody.”
Deputies have provided food and water for the dogs found at Crowley’s residence, and at least one officer will remain on-site overnight to ensure the animals do not roam. The rescue agency LaMa has agreed to pick up the animals and have them examined by a veterinarian.
In addition to the dogs, deputies found other animals on the property, including horses, pigs, cats, ducks and geese. Parker said those animals appeared to be in good condition but will be evaluated as well.
“If I have my way, she’ll never again be allowed to own even a goldfish,” Parker said.
Authorities are asking anyone with information about the case to contact the Webster Parish Sheriff’s Office.
All subjects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.