A disturbing animal cruelty case in the city of Geneva has ended with two residents sentenced after authorities uncovered widespread neglect involving nearly two dozen dogs.
Ontario County District Attorney Jason MacBride announced that Brian Hess and RoseMarie Bruno-Hess were each sentenced following guilty pleas tied to conditions investigators described as severe and dangerous for the animals involved.
Both defendants pleaded guilty to aggravated cruelty to animals, a felony, and were sentenced to five years of probation. They were also ordered to pay $1,240 in restitution and waived their rights to appeal, according to the district attorney’s office.
The case stemmed from a complaint received by the Ontario County Humane Society regarding multiple dogs that appeared malnourished at a residence on Avenue B. Authorities executed a search warrant and found 18 living dogs on the property, many in dire condition.
Eight of the dogs were discovered inside a feces-covered camper in the driveway with little access to food or water. Ten more were found inside the home, where both floors were covered in animal waste. Investigators also located the remains of eight deceased animals stored inside an unpowered freezer chest.
All surviving dogs were removed from the property and taken to Happy Tails Animal Shelter, where they received emergency care and began rehabilitation efforts.
MacBride credited the Ontario County Humane Society, Ontario County Sheriff’s Office, and local first responders and code enforcement officials for their coordinated response in addressing the situation and removing the animals from harm.
“This case reflects the serious consequences of animal cruelty and the importance of swift intervention when animals are suffering,” MacBride said.
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