BROAD RUN, Va. — A Broad Run woman was arrested and charged after over 70 dogs and over 50 poultry and other companion animals were seized from a property she owned.
In late January, Baltimore County Maryland Animal Control contacted Animal Control authorities after a deceased dog, reportedly owned by 41-year-old Irna Barrett, was left unclaimed at a veterinary clinic.
Officials said the dog showed signs of 'prolonged neglect'.
Animal Control officials sought a search warrant of Barett's property after the deceased dog was transferred to the Fauquier Health Department Agriculture Laboratory for necropsy. Officials believed that a search warrant would provide evidence that the animal was being neglected and suffering from long-term cruelty which possibly lead to it's death.
Fauquier County Animal Control deputies were able to execute the search warrant on January 28 in the 6200 block of Beverly's Mill Road after preliminary results determined the deceased dog suffered immensely and did not receive proper care from Barrett.
Once on scene, deputies located over 70 dogs, mainly Doberman Pinchers and French Bulldogs and over 50 poultry and other companion animals. The dogs did not have access to food and water and were living in poor conditions.
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In September 2019, 80 dogs were rescued from a suspected puppy mill in the Tower Hill Road area of Fauquier County.
According to officials, Animal Control deputies received an anonymous tip from someone who had come into contact with the facility. The person was shown a dog to purchase, and said the dog was noticeably not well cared for and had fleas. The anonymous tip said the facility was breeding Wheaten Terriers.
When deputies executed a search warrant, they found many dogs in extremely unsanitary conditions. Most animals had no access to water. Many of the terriers were also in poor health and had matted and tangled fur.
The suspect, Vernine Gipstein, was charged with one count of felony animal cruelty and misdemeanor possession of marijuana. She was released on a $3,000 unsecured bond.
Barrett was charged with felony cruelty to animals resulting in death and misdemeanor neglect of companion animals, according to deputies.
The rescued animals were taken to a nearby center for shelter and care.
Barrett was held on a $2,500 bond according to sheriffs.
Officials said more charges are pending.
