An investigation into animal cruelty and neglect resulted in 18 dogs being seized from a residence in Erie, Colorado on January 8.

According to a report from the town’s police department, an initial response took place on January 5 on the 1300 block of Reliance Place. While an animal control officer was on-scene that day, a dog was seen and later described as “severely malnourished and underweight, with minimal muscle definition.” That dog didn’t have a collar or microchip and due to concerns for its welfare, it was transported to the Humane Society of Boulder Valley after being classified as a stray.

It’s also worth noting that during that initial response, witnesses indicated that additional animals were likely being kept at a nearby property in similar condition. This allowed authorities to obtain a search warrant for the nearby residence, with that warrant executed on January 8.

During that January 8 response, 18 dogs were seized from the property with most of them determined to be neglected and emaciated. Additionally, two adults were arrested, held at Weld County Jail at last report.

One suspect may face charges of unlawful ownership of a dangerous dog and 19 counts of cruelty to animals. The other suspect may face 18 counts of cruelty to animals.

Anyone with information related to this case has been asked to contact law enforcement at 303-441-4444.

“As with all criminal matters, the charges listed are allegations,” wrote the police department. “The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.”

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