A horrendous discovery at Mercer County's Miller-Mercer Livestock Auction has led to the owner being charged with cruelty and neglect after over two dozen deceased animals were found on the premises. CBS News Pittsburgh reported that a humane officer, following up on a call from a Department of Agriculture vet, encountered an "improper compost pile," ostensibly containing about 25 dead animals. In addition to the pile, investigators observed three cows and a piglet deceased on the property.
According to WTAE, authorities described the disturbing conditions of a 12-foot-by-12-foot stall, including a large horse, donkey, nine sheep, two goats, and a pig crowded together without apparent access to water or food. While policing the auction, on a visit to the hospital where her daughter was having a baby, Paula Miller, the owner, alleged that she was mainly working in the office and denied knowledge of what transpired with the animals.
Miller, the sole proprietor of the business, faces serious repercussions for her alleged failure to provide proper care. According to The Record-Argus, she has been arraigned on multiple felony counts of cruelty in addition to 16 summary counts of animal neglect. Her preliminary hearing is scheduled for March 27.
