On the evening of 8/11/21, the Lockwood Valley Sheriff’s Station resident deputies received information that referenced significant animal neglect occurring in the 17000 block of Lockwood Valley Road.  The Lockwood Valley Sheriff’s Station investigated the allegations and coordinated a rescue mission for the neglected animals. 

On 8/12/21, Animal Control Officers from Ventura County Animal Services, Humane Officers with the Humane Society of Ventura County, and deputies from the Lockwood Valley Station and Ojai Sheriff’s Station responded to the location to investigate and rescue neglected animals.  During the rescue mission, the investigators observed well over 200 animals on the property.  Many animals were found to be kept in inhumane conditions including numerous without water, food, or adequate shelter.  Many of these animals were living in areas covered with urine and feces and as such, the animals were tormented by flies. 
 
The Animal Control Officers and Humane Officers rescued 50 animals from the property including 30 cats, nine dogs, four chickens, three rabbits, two ducks, and two guinea pigs.  A deceased goat was located under a tarp in one of the barns on the property and was recovered from the property.  

The Sheriff’s Office commends our partners with the Ventura County Animal Services and Humane Society of Ventura County for their tireless efforts to protect, care for, and promote the well-being of animals in Ventura County.  The Humane Society of Ventura County is a non-profit organization dedicated to the protection and adoption of animals in need throughout Ventura County.  To find out more information about the Humane Society of Ventura County, or to donate, visit www.hsvc.org.
 
The investigation into the animal neglect on this property is ongoing.  Anyone with information on this case is encouraged to contact Deputy Moss at the Lockwood Valley Sheriff’s Station (661) 245-3829.