Two Charged in Ongoing Animal Neglect Case – Over 12 Dead Animals Found; 56 Total Animals Removed From Property

Stemming from an ongoing investigation to where 56 animals were removed from a property located on Mudge King Road in North Norwich, two people have been charged by the New York State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation.

Back on January 22nd, a search warrant was conducted where 30 horses, a pig, 7 sheep, 4 goats, 7 dogs and 3 cats were found to be in need of immediate care. All animals were transported to various animal rescue locations, State Police say. In total, State Police say over 12 animals were found dead on the property. Dead animals found included horses, goats, pigs and chickens.

State Police arrested both 24 year old Fiona R. Taylor on February 14th, and on February 18th, arrested 47 year Lauren M. McKendry. Both are from Norwich. The two women are facing numerous felony and misdemeanor charges which can be found below.

Each has been charged with 16 counts of Agriculture Markets Law Aggravated Cruelty to Animals, a Felony and 65 counts of Agriculture Markets Law Overdriving, Torturing and Injuring Animals, a Misdemeanor. They also face the Misdemeanor charge of Failure to Provide Proper Sustenance. 

Both Taylor and McKendry were issued appearance tickets, State Police say, and are due to appear in North Norwich Town Court next week. State Police have expressed their thanks to the Chenango County Sheriff’s Office, Chenango County Office of Emergency Management, the Susquehanna SPCA, Chenango County SPCA, the National Humane Society and numerous animal care professionals and advocates for their assistance in the case.