Crime & Public Safety
Hoarding case involving 36 border collies advances in Martin County court
Martin County deputies removed 36 border collies from a home described as feces-filled on Aug. 10 in a case now moving through the county courthouse. The residence was condemned days after the dogs were taken into custody, and the county has pursued criminal charges related to the animals' conditions.
Prosecutors have filed 72 criminal counts against the home's resident — two counts for each dog — alleging animal cruelty and improper confinement. The defendant has pleaded not guilty. At a recent docket sounding in the Martin County courthouse the defendant was not present; her attorney said they had only just received discovery and were organizing the materials. The next scheduled hearing in the case is Dec. 1.
Following the seizure, local animal welfare groups and the Humane Society of the Treasure Coast coordinated placements. According to the Humane Society, 30 of the border collies have been adopted, five have been transferred or are slated to go to rescues, and one remains available for adoption. Several adopters reported that their dogs are adjusting to new homes and training routines after the rescue.
Current documented status: the criminal case is active in Martin County court with pending pretrial matters and a forthcoming hearing; animals removed from the property have been rehomed through rescues and adoptions. Allegations of cruelty and improper confinement are reflected in the charges; they remain allegations until resolved through the court process.
All individuals accused of a crime are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
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All individuals mentioned in criminal allegations are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.