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NEW BERLIN, N.Y. — The smell near 107 Clark Ln. was unbearable on Friday, as was the sight, for the first law enforcement officers on the scene around 7 a.m. after the SPCA got an anonymous call.
“We have a farm that has been neglected for a number of years. And as a result of that, several farm animals were found deceased in varying stages of decomposition. Several animals on the farm have had to be humanely euthanized and several of the animals are being removed to be cared for by the SPCA,” said State Police Captain Marc Barbera.
The farm was neglected but not abandoned.
“Two individuals were living on the farm. One has been removed. And the other one is in our custody,” said Barbera.
Charges, some felony-level, are expected.
“This is the worst one that I’ve seen in my career,” said Barbera.
It’s likely the number of deceased animals, ones that need to be euthanized and the ones that will need care, could exceed 100.
It’s not in their county, but the Susquehanna SPCA is there helping.
But this will strain their shelter.
“My SPCA is paying for the excavator, my SPCA is paying for all of the 25 people that are here getting overtime. My SPCA is paying for the animals when they go to be boarded, over 100 of them,” said Executive Director Stacie Haynes.
The road was lined with cars, agencies and volunteers, working together with one objective—the safety and well-being of these animals.
“If there’s any bright side to look at, that there’s 60 people here helping animals,” said Haynes. “The SPCA, we’re not here to fight with farmers. In fact, there are a handful of farmers here today helping us.”
If you can help the Susquehanna SPCA with the huge undertaking of caring for these animals, call 607 547 8111.
They could use money donations, and hay.
New Berlin animal abuse
Officials might hold a press conference next week to release more information about the suspects, the charges, the animals and their conditions.