DILLON, Mont. — Constance Riley, 70, and Robert Riley, 71, appeared in Beaverhead County Justice Court on Wednesday for charges of animal cruelty, littering-dumping of dead animals.
The judge released both Robert Riley and Constance Riley on their own recognizance, but they are not allowed to have any animals on his property.
The judge said that the defendants are not allowed to discuss the case with each other.
Prosecutors could add additional animal cruelty charges, one per animal, over 40 total.
Robert Riley will have a public defender appointed for him temporarily, but said he wants to hire a lawyer.
Constance Riley has applied for a public defender.
The judge also said there are any animals on property, including feral cats, they must report them to the Beaverhead County Sheriff’s Office.
The case will move to District Court on May 9.
On Tuesday, the Beaverhead County Sheriff’s Office announced an operation in the Chreston Lane area was one of the “largest and most heinous animal cruelty case the Sheriff’s Office has worked on.”
During the search, law enforcement found a “significant number” of dead animals. They also seized 47 animals, which are currently receiving veterinary care.
Two people were taken into custody and are charged with aggravated animal cruelty and littering.