PUNXSUTAWNEY — A Jefferson County man is facing charges after police allegedly found several malnourished dogs and a dead puppy in his Punxsutawney apartment.
Punxsutawney Borough Police have charged Alvin J. Grove, 18, of Park Avenue, Punxsutawney, with eight counts of cruelty to animals, a misdemeanor in the second degree; two counts of aggravated cruelty to animals –causing severe bodily injury or death, a felony in the third degree and eight counts of neglect of animals –lack of sustenance/water, a misdemeanor in the third degree. He is also cited for vaccination against rabies required –4 to 12 weeks old, and application dog license/fees, penalties, according to a criminal complaint filed at Magisterial District Judge Jacqueline Mizerock’s office June 21.
According to the affidavit of probable cause, on Friday, June 21, Punxsutawney Borough Police received a request to respond to a Park Avenue apartment regarding alleged animal neglect. Officers responded to this address and knocked on the door. They were met by a man, later identified as Grove. Two dogs, male and female, came to the door with him. The female dog appeared to be severely malnourished and emaciated. The dog had skin hanging from it, and its bones were readily defined through its short coat of fur, according to police. The dog’s ribs and bones were prominently evident, and its waist was extremely trimmed. The dog appeared to have not had access to proper nutrition in some time, police reported.
Grove told police there were puppies in the residence as well and invited them inside, where the officers noted strong odors of urine and feces. The apartment had no circulation, and it was 93 degrees outside. Police observed a crate on the floor with six puppies in it, which Grove said were 4 weeks old. The crate contained two bowls, both were empty, with no access to food or water. The crate was uncleaned. Police noticed five of the puppies were standing or placing their face in one of the empty bowls, while a sixth was lying down and appeared lifeless. The officer gained access to the crate and took the lying puppy, which appeared close to death but was breathing, and took it to provide care, according to the affidavit of probable cause.
Grove informed police that he was overwhelmed with the animals and admitted he was unable to care for them. He said he was unemployed. Grove was informed that a local animal rescue was being contacted to remove the dogs to prevent further serious injury. The other police officer returned to the apartment and advised that the puppy had died and was unable to be saved, according to the affidavit of probable cause.
Grove did not provide any vet records, dog licensing or proof of vaccination for the animals.
An animal rescue advocate came to the residence to take care and custody of the animals. The animals were photographed and transported to receive care via Stray Cat Central. Grove voluntarily signed over his rights to them, according to the affidavit of probable cause. Restitution is pending via the outcome of care and vet bills.
Grove’s preliminary hearing is set for July 19 at Mizerock’s office.
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