Five surviving dogs removed from Ontario County residence
On November 24, the Ontario County Sheriff’s Office responded to an animal cruelty complaint in Phelps, which ultimately led to the arrest of four individuals. The complaint alleged that a dog was being subjected to severe neglect and starvation while confined in an outdoor kennel at a residence on Cress Road.
Upon arrival, deputies, along with Humane Society investigators, discovered the lifeless body of a 3-year-old male Dogo Argentino dog named Covid. The dog was found wrapped in a blanket several yards away from a makeshift kennel located in a wooded area behind the residence. To ascertain the cause of death, Covid’s remains were transported to the Cornell Animal Health Diagnostic Center, where a necropsy was conducted.
The results of the necropsy revealed that Covid had succumbed to starvation, confirming the allegations of severe neglect. Subsequently, law enforcement took action by arresting and charging four individuals who were all aware of the tragic incident. The charges brought against them include Aggravated Cruelty to an Animal.
The suspects, all residents of Phelps, have been identified as 36-year-old Alicia A. Wright, 37-year-old Cory J. DiSanto, 60-year-old Robert M. Walker, and 54-year-old Amy E. Walker.
Ms. Wright, Ms. Walker, and Mr. Walker were issued appearance tickets for a scheduled court appearance at a later date in Phelps Town Court. On the other hand, Mr. DiSanto was transported to the Ontario County Jail for Centralized Arraignment.
Additionally, the authorities found five more dogs at the residence during the investigation. These dogs were promptly seized and are currently under evaluation by a local veterinarian to ensure their well-being.
