Charges have been laid against two people after more than 300 animals were seized from In The Woods animal rescue.
Valleyview RCMP launched an investigation in September into the rescue, which operated in Marie Reine and the Municipal District of Smoky River, after reports that animals might be in distress. At the end of October, RCMP — assisted by the Canadian Animal Task Force and the Alberta Animal Rescue Crew Society — executed a search warrant at the properties and found over 300 animals in varying states of distress. Police said many of the animals were deprived of basic care, including veterinary attention and humane living conditions.
A 69-year-old from Marie Reine and a 67-year-old from the MD of Smoky River face charges under the Criminal Code and the Animal Protection Act, including wilful neglect, causing unnecessary suffering and permitting animals to be in distress. Both accused have been released on conditions and are scheduled to appear in Peace River court in mid-December.
Const. Dayna Serafin thanked more than 16 animal-welfare agencies across Alberta, the Canadian Animal Task Force, local businesses and Coun. Ken Wittig for their help.
“Animals are important to all of us,” Serafin said. “Together, we were able to immediately place these animals into safe environments where they are receiving the care they need.”
RCMP said cats, dogs, horses and other livestock were among the rescued animals.
