Goats seized from Cornwall farm recovering in Niantic
Dozens of dairy goats seized from a farm in Cornwall are recovering at the Second Chance Large Animal Rehabilitation Facility located at York Correctional Institution in Niantic.
The animals were taken on Jan. 16 from the Butterfield Farm cheese-making operation on Hautboy Hill Road in Cornwall, according to the state Department of Agriculture.
The owners of the farm, Tara Bryson, 40, and Michael Hearl, 43, of 1001 N. Stone St., West Suffield, were each charged this week with 63 counts of cruelty to animals. Each of the animal cruelty charges carries a maximum penalty of a year in prison and a $1,000 fine.
The owners of the herd are accused of failing to properly feed, water and provide access to appropriate shelter for the herd of both mature and younger goats, most of which were found to be emaciated. A total of 74 goats were taken from the farm, but three died because they were in poor health, the agriculture department release said.
The conditions also compromised the animals’ ability to handle cold weather, resist parasites and disease and to deal with other stressful conditions such as pregnancy, the releases stated.
Bryson was arrested Thursday in West Suffield, and is free after posting a $60,000 bond. She is scheduled to appear in Bantam Superior Court on March 10.
Hearl turned himself in to Suffield police Friday and was scheduled to be arraigned at Bantam Superior Court.
“This was an extremely complicated case that presented unique challenges both in handling the goats and in investigating the actions of their owners,” Agriculture Commissioner Steven K. Reviczky said. “But this case also demonstrates that our department has no tolerance for the abuse and neglect of animals, and will do whatever it takes to hold accountable anyone who does not fulfill their responsibilities to livestock or pets in their care. I look forward to the resolution of this matter by our judicial system.”
The goats are now under the care of state Veterinarian Dr. Mary J. Lis.
i.larraneta@theday.com
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