Two residents of the Town of Junius face animal cruelty charges after authorities say they left several dogs tethered in extreme heat without access to water or shelter.
According to the Seneca County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to a property at 1607 Strang Road on June 23 after receiving a complaint of animal mistreatment. Investigators discovered multiple domesticated dogs owned by 83-year-old Lester Vangelder and 72-year-old Melody A. Vangelder living in “unsanitary, unhealthy and inadequate” conditions, exposed to severe heat and without proper care.
Deputies reported the animals were found tethered to trees with no supervision and in immediate danger of serious injury or death. The dogs were seized and removed from the property with the help of Beverly’s Animal Shelter to receive medical attention and appropriate care.
Lester and Melody Vangelder were each charged with three counts under Agriculture and Markets Law Section 353 for failing to provide proper sustenance, and three counts under Section 353-b for failing to provide shelter for dogs left outdoors.
The two were transported to the Seneca County Correctional Facility for processing and later released on appearance tickets. They are scheduled to appear in the Town of Junius Court at a future date to answer the charges.
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