Woman accused of fake animal rescue released without bail / Photo: Getty Images
A California woman accused of running a fake animal rescue while allegedly keeping dozens of dogs in filthy, overcrowded conditions has been released without bail despite facing multiple animal cruelty charges.Priscilla Martin, 33, has pleaded not guilty in Orange County Circuit Court to three felony counts of cruelty to animals by a caretaker, 11 misdemeanor counts of cruelty to animals by a caretaker, and one misdemeanor count of unlawful disposal of a dead animal, the New York Post reported.Prosecutors asked the court to set bail at $50,000, arguing that the seriousness of the charges justified keeping Martin in custody. However, Orange County Superior Court Commissioner Eric Isaacs ordered her release on the condition that she not own, possess or have access to any animals while the case is ongoing.The investigation began on July 4 after Newport Beach police responded to reports of several dogs trapped inside a vehicle parked in extreme temperatures.Officers found 18 dogs inside the vehicle, including 14 kept in crates and pet carriers. According to prosecutors, the animals had no access to water, were covered in feces, and many were suffering from heat distress.Animal control officers rescued 14 dogs, most of them puppies.
Authorities said 13 of them were suffering from intestinal parasites, while two six-week-old Golden Retriever puppies were found in critical condition due to severe untreated infestations. One of the puppies was later killed, while the other survived and is recovering.The investigation expanded days later after Irvine police discovered the body of a dead dog allegedly linked to Martin. Prosecutors said surveillance footage showed her removing the dog’s body from her car before leaving it in the bushes.
A post-mortem examination concluded that the animal died of heat stroke, which is consistent with prolonged exposure inside a hot car.On July 22, investigators encountered Martin again in Costa Mesa, where she was allegedly found with 14 other dogs inside her car. The animals were removed and taken for veterinary evaluation before Martin was arrested.Prosecutors also allege that Martin falsely claimed on social media that he ran a registered non-profit rescue organization called K9 Paws Rescue, also known as Canine Paws Rescue. However, investigators said the California Registry of Charities and Fundraising had no record of either organization even though registration was required for charitable fundraising.If convicted, Martin could be sentenced to up to 15 years and 10 months in prison.