Deputies say a St. Bernard Parish home turned into a grim scene during a recent search, with dozens of animals allegedly living in severe neglect. State-licensed veterinarians on site determined many of the animals were suffering serious health problems and that some were in danger of imminent death. Authorities have already removed multiple animals from the property and say the criminal investigation is still underway.
Search Warrant Leads To Arrest And Cruelty Charge
Sheriff James Pohlmann said detectives with the Criminal Investigations Bureau obtained and executed a search warrant at a residence in the 1700 block of Robert Drive and arrested Tina Bernard on May 18, booking her on a count of aggravated cruelty to animals, according to the St. Bernard Parish Sheriff’s Office. Investigators worked with the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry, St. Bernard Parish Government and state-licensed veterinarians during the operation, the post said. Bernard was taken into custody without incident, according to the release.
Dozens Of Animals Found In Troubling Conditions
Investigators found roughly 47 dogs, including 37 inside the home and 10 outside, along with chickens, parrots, ferrets, horses and a pony, as reported by WDSU. Veterinarians at the scene determined many of the animals had serious health issues and were in danger of imminent death, according to the reporting.
Animals Seized As Rescue And Recovery Continue
Parish government officials and animal-shelter personnel removed multiple animals from the property, focusing first on those needing urgent medical care. So far, authorities say 14 dogs, five horses and one pony have been seized, and more animals are expected to be relocated as the investigation continues, according to the St. Bernard Parish Sheriff’s Office. Anyone with information is asked to call the St. Bernard Sheriff’s Office at (504) 271-2501, the Criminal Investigations Bureau tip line at (504) 271-8477, or Crimestoppers GNO at (504) 822-1111.
Advocates Sound Off, Ordinances Under Scrutiny
Animal advocates told WDSU that complaints about the property had been filed for years and that several people now plan to bring their concerns to a parish council meeting. The parish president’s statement, quoted in the reporting, said the case highlights gaps in existing ordinances and that officials plan to address those weaknesses.
Legal Notes
Bernard was booked on a count of aggravated cruelty to animals, and prosecutors will decide whether additional charges are warranted as investigators continue to review evidence. Officials have not released a full inventory of the animals removed or a timetable for rehousing and medical care, citing the active investigation.
