Anonymous tip leads to arrest of Bridgeville couple on animal cruelty charges

BRIDGEVILLE, Del. – A Bridgeville couple has been charged with animal cruelty following the rescue of 20 dogs from their home.

Following an anonymous tip, Delaware Animal Services Animal Welfare Officers were called to a home on Ida Lane on August 14th to check on the welfare of dogs at a residence reportedly in poor condition. When officers arrived, they reportedly found a dog lying unresponsive in the yard, extremely emaciated and missing most of its fur. The dog was rushed to a veterinarian, but due to the severity of his condition, he unfortunately had to be euthanized.

A search warrant led officers to find 19 additional dogs of varying breeds and ages inside and outside of the property, including a nursing Boston Terrier with six puppies, five of whom were alive and one was deceased. Officials say many of the dogs had severe skin issues and suffered from sarcoptic mange, a highly contagious infection caused by burrowing mites. Some were malnourished and underweight, and some were in cramped housing with restricted movement.

As a result of the investigation, 42-year-old Ray Anderson and 40-year-old Melissa Layton were each charged with five misdemeanor counts of animal cruelty neglect, six dog housing violations, and 13 dog license violations. Both were released on their own recognizance.

All of the rescued dogs were taken to the Brandywine Valley SPCA where they are receiving medical treatment and care.