Sheriff Jim Allard says two people are in custody after a pair of lengthy animal cruelty investigations in Steuben County.
Joseph Duell, 51, of Troupsburg, and Brett Wilson, 26, of Woodhull were arrested on different days in late-October.
It started with a report of malnourished animals at a property in Troupsburg. Upon investigation it was determined that Duell failed to properly feed or shelter several animals on the property.
Due to the condition of the property and animals – 44 were removed including cats, dogs, pigs, rabbits, and a goat.
Duell was charged with injuring and failing to provide sustenance to animals and failing to provide appropriate shelter for dogs left outdoors.
He was released on an appearance ticket.
Three days later investigators with the sheriff’s office arrested Wilson, following a report of deceased animals left at an address on College Avenue in Corning.
It’s alleged that Wilson abandoned and failed to feed two cats and a reptile inside the residence on College Avenue, which led to their death. Wilson was charged with abandonment of a disabled animal and neglect of an impounded animal.
He was released on appearance tickets and will answer the charges at a later date.
Sheriff Allard thanked the Finger Lakes SPCA for their assistance in the two investigations.
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