Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger issued the following statement today after the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office announced 35 criminal charges against the operator of a Lake Hughes animal rescue, following an investigation involving more than 300 animals allegedly found living in inhumane and unsanitary conditions:
“The conditions these animals allegedly endured are horrifying and unacceptable. I commend our Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control personnel and all of the agencies and partners who stepped in to rescue these animals, provided them with desperately needed care, and conducted the extensive investigation that led to today’s charges.
Animal cruelty has no place in our communities. Anyone entrusted with the care of animals has a responsibility to protect their health and well-being. When that trust is violated, there must be accountability. I appreciate District Attorney Hochman and his team for taking these allegations seriously and pursuing this case.”