Suspect arrested, ‘puppy mill,’ aggravated animal cruelty

DISCLAIMER: All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS) —A suspect has been arrested for what officers believe is a ‘puppy mill,’ facing 72 counts of aggravated animal cruelty after deputies traced evidence to her mobile home.

On Sunday, the Webster Parish Sheriff’s Office staff found more than 20 sick dogs and puppies abandoned

on Dement Rd, south of Doyland, which led them to the suspects’ mobile home in the 300 block of Stable Dr.

Authorities said they found approximately 60 dogs of all ages and sizes in cages throughout the residence. Some cages reportedly held multiple large dogs in conditions that were described as inhumane.

“There was urine and feces everywhere, and some of the animals were in cages without food or water,” Parker said. “And there were people living in this place with all these animals. I don’t think I’ve seen this type of condition before.”

WPSO Sheriff Jason Parker said Doyline resident Kimberly B. Crowley was operating a ‘puppy mill’ from the residence.

Parker said after Major Robert Hayden confronted Crowley with evidence, she asked if she could pay a fine and have this all forgotten.

“Major Hayden’s answer wasn’t what this person wanted to hear,” Parker said. “He informed her that she absolutely was not getting off with a fine. She was going to be taken into custody.”

Deputies have provided food and water for all the dogs, and at least one officer will stay at the residence throughout the night to ensure the animals do not wander off. The rescue shelter, LaMa, has been notified and has agreed to pick up the animals for a veterinary inspection.

Webster Parish Sheriff Jason Parker said Crowley, 58, was taken into custody just after 2 p.m. Thursday and resides in the parish jail.

“Those animals appeared to be in good condition, but they will be checked also,” he said. “But if I have my way, she’ll never again be allowed to own even a goldfish.”

Major Robert Hayden, Lt. Chuck Clark, and Deputy Justin Spillers from the Webster Parish Sheriff’s Office were the lead investigators tracking down the person who abandoned the dogs in Doyline.