Two individuals, John Griffiths, 34, of Galena, Missouri, and Jessica Jean Johnson, 30, face multiple charges following a significant animal rescue operation in Stone County, Missouri. The Stone County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO) has reported the rescue of 55 dogs and puppies in severe distress, along with the grim discovery of 15 deceased canines.
The rescue operation commenced on January 19 after concerned residents reported animal abuse and neglect at a residence on Camp Clark Hill Road in Galena. Responding deputies found the dogs in harrowing conditions, many without access to food or water, and some tied to trees or shelters.
In addition to the dogs, the remains of other animals, including five goats, a cat, and two birds, were found on the property. The Humane Society of Missouri (HSMO), over 250 miles away in St. Louis, was called in for assistance.
HSMO’s Animal Cruelty Task Force conducted the rescue, providing immediate care to the malnourished dogs and puppies on site before transporting them back to St Louis. The condition of the dogs suggested they might have starved or frozen to death.