In a disturbing case of animal cruelty paired with illicit drug operations, New Bedford Police Animal Control officers rescued a total of 21 dogs from deplorable conditions during an investigation earlier this week. According to a Facebook post by the New Bedford Police Department, 12 Cane Corsos were found caged in an attic where temperatures soared over 100 degrees, and 9 French Bulldogs were discovered in a third-floor apartment of the 184 Myrtle St. residence; some of these dogs were found roaming free while others were confined in unsanitary cages, all suffering from lack of food and water and some exhibiting overgrown nails that hindered their mobility.
The scene, which unfolded on Monday, July 8th, led to the discovery of various narcotics after the tenant, Derrick Ambrose, 35, fled the residence, the encounter with the grim reality began when investigators were met with the sting of urine and feces upon their arrival and were greeted by the incessant barking of the dogs trapped inside. Claims of animals living in distress were soon compounded by the find of over 9 grams of fentanyl, over 25 grams of crack cocaine, in addition to Adderall, Oxycodone, mushrooms, and marijuana: as the investigation delved deeper, equipment consistent with drug packaging such as vacuum sealers, materials, and scales typical of narcotics sales were also confiscated from the scene.
A manhunt is underway for Ambrose, who is now facing a warrant for his arrest the charges looming over him include 39 counts of animal cruelty and numerous drug-related offenses. The list of drug charges is comprehensive, stretching across trafficking over 18 grams of cocaine and possession with intent to distribute classes A through E controlled substances. Police have indicated that Ambrose is not unfamiliar with the criminal justice system, bearing an extensive history of 67 adult arraignments and myriad convictions, including weapon-related offenses and previous drug dealing.
As for the animals, the 21 dogs are now in the custody of the police department's Animal Control, whose officers were integral to the rescue, have been removed from the residence the implications of animal cruelty and neglect in this case are serious, and they have underscored an all too often ignored truth—the intersection of animal abuse and other forms of criminality. Ambrose, currently linked to three open cases in Falmouth District Court as well as nine open cases in New Bedford District Court, remains at large at the time of this reporting.
