One of 51 beagles seized from Pennsylvania murder scene. (above)
Credits:
Dessin Animal Shelter
Pennsylvania state police were in for a shock Sunday when they discovered over 50 beagles in a Newfoundland home where a woman had been shot in the neck.
The victim was Donnalynn Schroeder, 52, who was transported by helicopter to a hospital where she later died during surgery. Her husband, Bertrand Schroeder, immediately confessed to the shooting. He maintained that the murder was accidental, telling police that he "did a stupid thing by getting drunk and then messing with a rifle."
Bertrand Schroeder was arrested and charged with criminal homicide, firearms violations and 50 counts of cruelty to animals. He remains in Wayne County Prison where he is being held without bail.
Troopers investigating the incident noted that the Schroeder's Wayne County home was packed with beagles, many of whom were puppies. According to the complaint, conditions at the filthy residence were "deplorable for both human and animal welfare."
A humane officer was dispatched to the scene and subsequently obtained a warrant for the dogs' seizure. On Sunday evening, volunteers and shelter staffers rounded up 51 beagles from the home and transported them to Dessin Animal Shelter in Honesdale.
The sudden influx of new arrivals has caused a crisis for Dessin Animal Shelter. The shelter, which only has room for 20 animals, was already housing 28 dogs at the time of the seizure. As Pennsylvania state law mandates that the shelter take in any animals brought to them by a dog warden, the facility had no choice but to make room for the beagles. The resulting overcrowding has caused the shelter to stop accepting relinquished dogs at this time.
The shelter is in dire need of adopters, donors and volunteers. Anyone able to help is asked to call 570-253-4037 or stop by the facility located at 138 Miller Drive in Honesdale. Anyone wishing to donate towards the beagles' care can do so via check or Paypal.
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