On Wednesday, a man was arrested after reports of a severe case of neglect involving more than a dozen dogs.
According to the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office, deputies and detectives responded to the disturbing animal cruelty case in the area of 299th Avenue in Gila Bend. Once on the scene, they found a scene of severe neglect involving more than a dozen dogs living in deplorable conditions.
John D. Jackson, age 38, was taken into custody after being on the run since April 5th.
Deputies discovered that the homeowner was absent, with indications that they had been away for weeks. The dogs were found confined to outdoor kennels without access to food, clean water, proper shelter, and covered in feces. Detectives immediately sought a search warrant to enter the property and remove the animals to ensure their safety.
Inside the residence, Cane Corso puppies were discovered, along with what appeared to be the deceased mother dog . Additionally, multiple dogs were found in the yard some of which were confined in the side yard. Of the confined dogs, seven were in terrible condition, having resorted to feeding on the remains of two deceased dogs.
Overall, MCSO detectives seized 11 adult dogs one of which was a French bulldog and 7 Cane Corso puppies. All were turned over to the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office MASH (MCSO Animal Safe Haven) unit ensuring they received immediate veterinary care. Three deceased animals were transported to a veterinarian for a necropsy to determine the cause of death.
“I am outraged by the unimaginable suffering these animals endured, and I assure the public that we will take swift and decisive action to seek justice,” said Maricopa County Sheriff Jerry Sheridan. “No animal should ever have to endure such neglect, and I pledge to relentlessly pursue those who commit these heinous acts.
Jackson will initially be charged with ARS 2910A9 (Felony Cruel Mistreatment).
Additional charges are pending ongoing necropsy, veterinary and medical testing.