POWNAL — Two people were cited for cruelty to animals following an incident in Pownal earlier this month.
On February 17, authorities say they were notified of possible animal cruelty on Blueberry Hill.
Police say they could see multiple dead Guinea pigs in cages as well as feces and urine covering the floors of the home.
Troopers made entry into the home with the landlord and a member of animal control.
In total, troopers located 6 Guinea pigs, 4 of which were deceased, as well as two dogs.
Following an investigation, police allege that Juan M Garcia, 22, of Pownal, and Cassaundra M Halsey, 32, of Hoosic Falls, NY, both shared responsibility for the care of these animals and abandoned them.
Animal control removed the living animals from the home and transported them to the shelter.
Police say they then located Garcia and Halsey and issued them citations to appear in court on March 27 to answer the charges.
