An Orange County woman, who allegedly operated an animal rescue charity, has been arrested on felony animal cruelty charges after prosecutors reported she confined 18 dogs in a vehicle without water in Newport Beach and abandoned the carcass of one deceased puppy in Irvine.
Priscilla Martin, 33, faces three felony counts of animal cruelty by a caretaker, 11 misdemeanor counts of animal cruelty by a caretaker, and one misdemeanor count of disposing of a dead animal improperly, according to a statement from the Orange County District Attorney's office. Martin pleaded not guilty on Thursday and was released on her own recognizance, with the condition that she is prohibited from possessing any animals.
The charges stem from two separate incidents. On July 4, Newport Beach police responded to a report of dogs confined in a vehicle. Upon arrival, officers discovered 18 dogs inside, with 14 housed in crates under unsanitary conditions and deprived of water, authorities allege. Thirteen of these dogs were puppies, including two golden retriever puppies in critical condition due to untreated parasites. One of these puppies required euthanasia, while the other is currently recovering.
In a subsequent incident on July 13, Irvine Police Department officers discovered a deceased dog in bushes. A microchip identified Martin as the owner. Prosecutors stated that surveillance footage showed Martin pulling into a parking lot, after which the dog, later found in the bushes, was discovered. A necropsy determined the dog died from heatstroke.
Martin reportedly advertised on social media as the operator of a nonprofit animal rescue organization named K-9 Paws Rescue, Inc. However, state records indicate the organization was not legally registered as a nonprofit. Authorities have been unable to contact Martin or K-9 Paws Rescue, Inc. Martin was apprehended on Wednesday in Costa Mesa, where an additional 14 dogs were found in her vehicle. These dogs are undergoing veterinary evaluations.
Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer stated, "The abuse of animals will never be tolerated, and anyone who engages in violence or neglect against animals will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law." If convicted, Martin could face a prison sentence of up to 15 years and 10 months. The Orange County Public Defender's office has not yet assigned legal representation.
