Horrific Animal Cruelty Case Uncovered in Montana

Our first responders never fully know what they're getting into when they head into work. With their safety always on the line, they find ways to keep their focus on the ultimate goal at hand: serving and protecting our community.

Deputies Respond To An Animal Complaint Call

In a press conference that was held on the afternoon of Thursday, August 28, we learned that Cascade County Sheriff's Office responded to a complaint of animal cruelty on Wednesday, August 27th around 1:30 PM in the afternoon.

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The investigation took place at 1323 Eisenhower here in Great Falls and that's when deputies noticed "around thirty dogs living on the property with one deceased dog in the living room."

Sheriff Slaughter described the living conditions as "not good."

Multiple Animals Found In Awful Conditions In Great Falls

"[The living conditions] reeked of ammonia, feces all over the floor, and not only outside but inside," he said in the press conference.

The Sheriff's Office then acquired a search warrant so Cascade County detectives could begin their investigation which led to more shocking details.

"We found thirty-seven dogs that were alive, four dogs that were deceased, eight cats, one snake, and five lizards," Sheriff Slaughter said.

"Also, one hedgehog."

The mere thought of this is shocking and detectives no doubt have their work cut for them.

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Sheriff Slaughter went on to share that they have a veterinarian on-site teaming up with detectives on the investigation It was also noted that nine other dogs were found in another structure, but were deemed to be safe.

The Sheriff's Office says they have a person "or possibly persons" of interest in the case and will notify the public when an arrest is made.

Calling Great Falls! The Animals Need Your Help!

Now, the Cascade County Sheriff's Office needs our help due to the complicated nature of the case and how it involves so many animals.

"They're at the Maclean Animal Shelter and these animals will be available for foster care," Sheriff Slaughter said. Slaughter made it clear there's rules to fostering one of the animals including being able to keep the animal while the investigation determines where each animal belongs.

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"You can't get rid of the animal or anything, you have to stay in contact with us and Maclean Animal Shelter so we know where they are."

The High Cost Of Caring For The Animal Victims in Great Falls

In addition to fostering one of the animals, you can also support the investigation financially. Because of the high cost of ensuring all of the animals get proper medical treatment and vaccinations, you can also support the investigation by donating to Cascade County Sheriff's Office at SheriffsLegacy.org (look for the Donate Now button or click here to donate) or by check in-person at the sheriff's office at 3800 Ulm North Frontage Rd. according to a press release.

We extend a huge shout out to our law enforcement for continuing their hard work to protect not just the humans of great falls, but its animals as well.