Thirty-eight neglected dogs were found living in deplorable conditions inside a California home, leading to felony animal cruelty charges against the resident, authorities said.
Brandi Lee Jacobs, 42, appeared in Butte County Superior Court on Monday facing 39 felony counts after officers discovered the dogs during a welfare check at her Oroville residence last week. The Oroville Police Department and Code Enforcement responded following a neighbor’s complaint about the large number of dogs and a strong odor of animal waste. Upon arrival, officers encountered overwhelming odors and “deplorable” conditions, including several inches of feces covering floors and walls, according to the Butte County District Attorney’s Office.
Jacobs and her spouse, Jose Bartolo Martinez Jr., were jointly charged with 39 counts of felony animal cruelty for failing to provide the dogs with adequate food, water, shelter, and protection from the elements. Prosecutors said these conditions led to needless suffering.
After being arraigned on Monday, Jacobs remains in the Butte County Jail with bail set at $585,000. Martinez was also arrested, but was mistakenly released due to a paperwork error. Oroville police are now pursuing a new warrant to return him to custody, according to District Attorney Mike Ramsey.
Inside the residence, officers documented 38 living dogs. Many were found crammed inside small cages, malnourished, and exhibiting signs of severe neglect. A deceased puppy was discovered inside a crate in the couple’s bedroom, the police department said in a press release.
The Northwest Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) responded to assist with the removal and care of the animals. The nonprofit found that all the dogs were suffering from malnourishment, with some also affected by respiratory, skin, or urinary infections. Despite their poor condition, officials say all 38 dogs are expected to recover.
In a public statement, the Northwest SPCA said their current focus is on providing urgent medical care for the rescued dogs. The organization is asking for financial donations to help cover the animals’ treatment costs and noted that the dogs are not yet available for adoption.
To help alleviate overcrowding, the Northwest SPCA has waived adoption fees for all other animals in its care and plans to hold another free adoption event in the near future.
This case remains an active investigation. Authorities are asking anyone with additional information to contact the Oroville Police Department.