In a significant case of suspected animal cruelty, Charleston Animal Society in partnership with the Berkeley Sheriff's Office, is aiding in the rescue and care of more than 35 dogs seized from a Berkeley County property on Wednesday, July 2. Goose Creek Police also assisted in the seizure. The operation followed the execution of a search warrant issued by the Sheriff’s Office after receiving reports of possible neglect and mistreatment of animals on the premises.
"Tragically, we also discovered the skulls of three dogs onsite," said Charleston Animal Society Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Aldwin Roman, CAWA.
Staff members from Charleston Animal Society, including Chief Veterinary Officer Dr. Elizabeth Fuller, were on-site during the seizure to support the law enforcement team and ensure the safe removal and immediate care of the animals.
“Charleston Animal Society is proud to support the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office in this critical investigation,” said Dr. Fuller. “These dogs were living in unacceptable conditions. We are grateful they are now safe and will receive the veterinary care, food, and compassion they so desperately need.”
SUSPECT WAS SENTENCED FOR CRUELTY IN PAST
In 2013, law enforcement found 200 dogs buried in the the same suspect's yard. Loney Garrett of Goose Creek was convicted in 2015 and sentenced to two years in prison and five years of probation.
Garrett was initially charged with 43 counts of animal cruelty, but was sentenced for only 10 charges. According to a report in the Post and Courier, animal advocates described the 2013 case as "horrifying and the worst they'd ever seen."
VETERINARY CARE UNDERWAY FOR RESCUED ANIMALS
"The animals we found today are mostly hounds and mixed breeds, and are being processed and treated at the Charleston Animal Society’s Berkeley campus in Moncks Corner," said Detective John DiFalco, Animal Cruelty Investigator with Berkeley County Sheriff's Office.
Preparation for the intake began early in the week, with Charleston Animal Society staff assessing and readying the Berkeley campus to handle the sudden influx of animals. The rescue team ensured that appropriate space, supplies, and medical resources were available to meet the needs of the incoming dogs, many of whom were found in poor condition, requiring urgent medical attention.
“This was day two for us operating the campus in Berkeley County,” said Charleston Animal Society President and CEO Joe Elmore, CAWA, CFRE. “But when situations like this arise, it's good to know that are now able to respond immediately, and ensure that animals in crisis have a place to go. It’s also a reflection of the strong partnership we’ve built with Berkeley County and the Berkeley County Sheriff's Office.”
The seized animals are undergoing veterinary evaluations to assess their physical condition, document any signs of neglect or abuse, and begin treatment plans. Charleston Animal Society veterinary and animal care teams are also working to identify other needs and determine which animals can eventually be placed in homes, pending court decisions.
"For people who can help, the number one thing they can do right now, today, is to come adopt one of the dogs currently looking for homes at Charleston Animal Society Berkeley Campus," said Elmore. "We desperately need the space for these rescued dogs, that will be in our care for weeks to come."
Charleston Animal Society Berkeley Campus is located at 131 Central Berkeley Dr, Moncks Corner, SC 29461. Adoptable animals can be viewed at CASBerkeley.org.