Lawanda Ragland and Mark Anthony Davis

Hoarders - 17 abused and neglected dogs rescued – 20 more missing

Vance County, NC

July 19, 2006

(photo courtesy of WRAL)  17 abused and neglected dogs were rescued by Vance County authorities on Wednesday, July 19^th.  Authorities report that at least 20 more dogs are unaccounted for.

Following a lengthy investigation, 12 pit bulls, 3 bullmastiffs and 1 pit bull mixed dog were seized by animal control officers on Stagecoach Road.  Two of the dogs rescued were puppies.

The alleged owners, Lawanda Ragland and Mark Anthony Davis were arrested and charged with 17 counts of misdemeanor animal cruelty each. Both Ragland and Davis may face additional fines for violation of the county’s vaccination ordinance.  Authorities state that some of the dogs have lived in abusive conditions for at least three years.  The abuse included deprivation of adequate food/water and ‘overriding’ the pit bull mix with heavy restraints.

Investigation of this case began in 2003 by animal control officials when the dogs were kept at another residence but suddenly removed.  In September, 2005, the investigation was reopened when an anonymous tip alerted authorities to the alleged abuse on Stagecoach Road. At that time, investigators observed approximately 37 dogs held in a 200-foot by 100-foot fenced area.  Attempts were made previously by Vance County authorities before the rescue to rectify the dogs’ living conditions but were unsuccessful.

Authorities would not say whether the dogs were being raised for illegal fighting purposes, but they did state that some of the animals bore scars that are consistent with dog fighting.  The dogs have been deemed as not adoptable.

Ragland and Davis are both scheduled to appear in court on August 14^th, 2006

Reference:

WRAL