Woman charged with 92 counts of animal cruelty

A West Virginia woman is accused of animal cruelty after officials discovered multiple residences containing 92 dead and dying animals, authorities said.

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According to a news release from the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office, Donna Marie Thompson, 50, of Valley Head, faces 92 counts of animal cruelty after officials found “deplorable, unliveable conditions” at two residences in Valley Head.

Deputies were called to a home on Monday after receiving a complaint, according to WDTV. They discovered the home had no electricity, all windows and doors were closed and there was an overwhelming odor of urine, according to the news release.

“The conditions were so severe, hazmat suits and respirators were required to even enter the threshold of both houses,” the sheriff’s office said.

Officers also found obstructions that were placed to prevent two dogs from leaving a sunporch room, according to WBOY-TV. All of the living animals recovered needed medical attention, according to the television station. In another section of the house, 10 dead cats were found “stacked on top of each other,” the sheriff’s office said.

There were 11 dogs, 40 live cats and 41 deceased cats at both residences, the sheriff’s office said.

Authorities said that Thompson and her family owned both homes, WDTV reported. She has posted bail, online records show.

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