ROY, Wash. — Fifty-four animals are safe after a suspect was arrested on suspicion of illegal breeding and animal cruelty in Roy.
According to the Pierce County Sheriff’s Department, they received a tip about possible illegal breeding in November.
After a long investigation, deputies got a warrant and swarmed the property.
They rescued 35 dogs, 18 cats and a large horse.
“An operation like this consists of hours of planning and preparing along with coordinating with the Humane Society and local vets,” PCSD wrote in a blotter post. “We are appreciative for our partnerships and would not be able to help these animals without them.”
The animals are receiving medical care and will go to the Humane Society for Tacoma and Pierce County once they are healthy.
The humane society anticipates its shelter to reach near capacity and will likely look to move some animals into temporary kennels to meet this new demand.
The PCSD reported that the suspect has a history with Animal Control, and charges will be forwarded to a prosecutor for review.