Boulder City, NV – A disturbing discovery by Boulder City police officers has resulted in animal cruelty charges against an elderly couple.

Traffic Stop Leads to Shocking Revelation

On Friday evening, officers pulled over a vehicle with a broken taillight. The press release from Boulder City’s Office of the City Manager states that upon approaching the car, officers were immediately struck by a foul odor emanating from dead animals. A subsequent search of the vehicle revealed a horrific scene – 51 guinea pigs, with eleven already deceased, and rabbits confined within plastic totes and luggage.

Tip Leads to Further Investigation

The press release indicates that police had received a prior tip regarding a potential case of animal cruelty and hoarding involving a car. This information, coupled with the troubling discovery during the traffic stop, prompted further action.

More Animals Found in Dire Conditions

Police and Boulder City Animal Control officers took custody of the animals found in the car. Sadly, four additional guinea pigs have since died.

The female suspect, concerned about the fate of additional animals, reportedly notified Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department of animals at their residence and a Las Vegas hotel room. This information led to the discovery of 30 dogs, with a heartbreaking ten already deceased, within the Las Vegas hotel room linked to the couple. A search of their home yielded another 15 dogs and additional guinea pigs in a state of neglect.

Mounting Costs and Uncertain Future for Rescued Animals

The press release quotes Ann Inabnitt, Supervisor of Boulder City Animal Control, who anticipates veterinary care for these animals to cost thousands of dollars. Further complicating matters, some of the rescued pets are pregnant, making it difficult to determine the exact number of animals in need at this time.

Legal Ramifications

Both Timothy Miller, 79, and Carolyn Luke, 72, face 11 misdemeanor charges of animal cruelty – torture, injury, abandonment, or starvation. Additionally, they could face felony charges stemming from the animals discovered in Las Vegas.

Credits: Review Journal