Starving Dog Trapped In Window Exposes Alleged House Of Horrors In West Price Hill

On Minion Avenue in Cincinnati’s West Price Hill neighborhood, a starving dog wedged between a window and a sheet of plywood set off a criminal investigation that now has its owner facing animal-cruelty charges.

Police were called by neighbors who spotted the emaciated dog stuck in the opening. Inside the home, investigators say they found multiple animals living in filthy conditions, including at least one dog discovered dead inside a crate with no access to food or water. The homeowner, 60-year-old Angela Dodson, was arrested on animal-cruelty-related charges and appeared in court Monday.

Trapped dog led responders to the scene

According to WKRC, neighbors called police after spotting the distressed dog caught between the window and plywood. Investigators said the animal appeared to have been trying to escape the house. Other dogs inside were described as malnourished, and at least one was found dead in a crate. WKRC reported that first responders and animal-control officers worked together at the scene as the case unfolded.

Records show felony and misdemeanor counts

Public records reviewed by WLWT show Dodson faces multiple counts tied to Ohio’s “prohibitions concerning companion animals” statute, along with an additional animal-cruelty charge. WLWT reports that one alleged animal death is linked to a felony count, while another alleged death is charged as a misdemeanor. Several additional misdemeanor counts relate to the physical condition of the surviving animals. According to that report, first responders found dogs confined without food or water, and at least one with an apparent paw injury.

What Ohio law covers

Ohio’s “prohibitions concerning companion animals” law, found in Ohio Revised Code §959.131, makes it illegal to deprive animals of necessary sustenance and allows felony charges when neglect proximately causes an animal’s death, as outlined in the state code. The statute also requires certain fines from violations to be directed to local humane agencies and spells out a range of conduct that can qualify as cruelty. Prosecutors are expected to review the evidence and veterinary findings before deciding how to proceed on the felony allegation.

Attorney comment and next steps

Dodson’s attorney told reporters she had recently tried to surrender at least one of the dogs, according to WKRC, but did not provide additional details. Court records indicate Dodson was released from jail without posting bond. Authorities have not yet released a complete list of the animals seized or the final causes of death, as veterinary examinations and the Hamilton County investigation continue.