Cheektowaga, NY – A disturbing case of animal cruelty has emerged from Cheektowaga, New York, where 24-year-old Kerisa J. Schmitt faces a litany of charges. Schmitt was arraigned on 154 counts of overdriving, torturing, and injuring animals, and an additional 154 counts of failure to provide proper food and drink to impounded animals. These charges are classified as Class “A” misdemeanors under New York Agriculture and Markets Law.
The case unfolded when SPCA officers, following up on an animal welfare check at Schmitt’s residence on Colton Street in December 2023, observed numerous farm animals living in deplorable conditions. The subsequent investigation by the SPCA and Cheektowaga Police Department revealed a shocking number of animals subjected to neglect.
Investigators found 156 animals, including 117 chickens, 18 ducks and geese, 15 rabbits, two goats, two dogs, one cat, and one pig. These animals were reportedly kept in unsanitary conditions without proper access to food and water. The gravity of the situation was further underscored by Erie County District Attorney John Flynn, who lauded the efforts of the SPCA and the police in handling this extensive case.