Man arrested for animal cruelty; shelter seeking donations to care for dogs

Man is facing numerous charges related to animal cruelty

(MADISON, Ind.) – A Madison animal shelter is seeking donations after taking custody of  more than a dozen dogs who are believed to be victims of abuse. 

The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office raided a home on Virginia Avenue in Madison on Tuesday after receiving allegations of animal neglect and abuse. 

59-year-old John Scott was arrested and charged with 17 counts of Animal Cruelty along with numerous other charges. 

Investigators say the search led them to find numerous dogs who were without potable water and food contaminated with feces. 

“Dogs were located in kennels that were filled with feces to the point that the dogs were unable to safely stand.  Dogs were found with skin infections and open wounds; some of the wounds were old and in the process of healing,” Jefferson County Sheriff Ben Flint said.

Investigators say they also found several dead dogs and a dead horse on the property. 

13 dogs were rescued from the property and police believe there are still four more dogs that are unaccounted for.

The rescued dogs are now in the care of the Jefferson County Animal Shelter where they are being evaluated. 

The shelter was taking donations of dog food on Tuesday and the community has responded in a big way and those needs have been met. But more help is still needed.

"Money for vetting and much needed grooming, is our next obstacle," the shelter stated.

The shelter will be closed to the public on Wednesday as they continue to process the dogs and provide essential care. 

You can make a donation by typing "Virginia Ave Dogs" on the online portal which is available by clicking here.

The police search was initiated after authorities received numerous reports of dogs attacking and chasing people around the home.

Police say they also learned of documented cases of some dogs on the property having Parvo and other illnesses.

“Additionally, several dogs which have been previously removed from the property have been malnourished, with matted fur and were infested with ticks and fleas,” Sheriff Flint added.

The Jefferson County Animal Shelter will make further updates on what they need on their Facebook page which you can view by clicking here.