Police Chief Joseph Gordon said the farm’s owner, Sharon Melanson, 48, turned herself in at the police station and was arraigned Tuesday on five counts of animal cruelty.
Gordon said police had suspended the investigation after the family suffered a “horrible tragedy” on Oct. 23 — the sudden death of Melanson’s son, 9-year-old Christopher Chester. Christopher died of an undiagnosed heart defect after collapsing while walking to a friend’s house to deliver homemade cookies.
Police later resumed their investigation into the animals on the farm, some of which had died or were euthanized.
Yes, it's a horrible tragedy to have a child suddenly die. However, there is NO reason that the police needed to 'suspend the investigation'. If they weren't feeding the animals before -- do you think they would think to feed the animals while they're grieving for their dead child?! How many animals died as a result of this stupid idea?
Here's an idea: how about you remove the animals and let them grieve. And then you go back and charge them with cruelty after they've had "time to grieve". Duh.
According to SPCA officials, four horses, six alpacas, 14 ducks and geese, six goats, three chickens, three doves and one cat were removed from the property.
All of the animals were voluntarily surrendered except for one horse and one goat, which Melanson was forced to give up.
Gordon said the investigation began in October when neighbors contacted police about possible animal neglect.
He said police tried to lessen the burden on the family by offering to remove some of the animals in October.
Melanson remains free on bail and is scheduled for a trial management conference in Derry Circuit Court on Jan. 20.
Lisa Dennison, the SPCA’s executive director, called the rescue case a “very sad situation.”
“The circumstances surrounding this case make it that much more tragic. We were called in by the Sandown police to bring the animals out of a bad situation and ensure their safety, and that is what we have done. I am proud of our team of staff and volunteers who were prepared to do whatever was needed to end the suffering of these animals, working late into the night in difficult circumstances,” she said.
The animals will be examined by a veterinarian to determine their condition and overall health.
The extent of medical intervention will be determined in the coming days.
Officials said the animals may have been victims of prolonged neglect, which means they will likely need costly medical tests for parasites and disease, vaccinations, careful re-feeding schedules, medical treatments and physical conditioning. The Stratham shelter is accommodating the farm animals, but said it will be difficult, especially with the alpacas, which will require special veterinary care.
The SPCA is seeking help from the public to care for the new rescued animals.
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Tax-deductible contributions can be made to the “SOS Fund” via the SPCA’s website, www.nhspca.org.
The direct link is http://www.nhspca.org/animals-rescued-from-suspected-cruelty-in-Sandown/.
Gifts to the SOS Fund can also be made by phone at 772-2921, ext. 102, or by mail, New Hampshire SPCA, P.O. Box 196, Stratham, N.H., 03885.
(The Union Leader - Dec 23, 2015)
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