Suffolk animal sanctuary accused of neglecting animals in its care
Investigators say dogs, cats, horses, an alpaca and even peacocks, were living on the property
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The Suffolk district attorney says 112 animals were allegedly neglected by an animal sanctuary called Double D Bar Ranch in Manorville.
"We took about 20 ducks today, eight geese, a few dozen chickens," said John Di Leonardo, with Humane Long Island.
Di Leonardo says he helped rescue these birds from the Manorville sanctuary.
The Suffolk DA says after multiple complaints about the sanctuary, detectives saw the animals were left outside in the cold, and had no access to water. Authorities say some had untreated medical conditions. They say some were even found dead. The DA charged Double D Bar Ranch with 112 counts of animal neglect.
"Ridiculous. Without a doubt. I've been here for eight years. I know this man takes care of every animal like it's his own child," said Robert Hogan, a Double D Bar Ranch volunteer.
News 12 went to Double D Bar Ranch to ask them about the alleged neglect. Hogan says the sanctuary has cared for farm animals for more than 20 years.
Lawyers for the ranch say the owner is heartbroken.
"Absolutely, categorically false. We look forward to getting into court to fight this," said Joseph Murray, a Double D Bar Ranch attorney.
Humane Long Island says it will find the rescued animals new permanent homes.
