(EL PASO COUNTY, Colo.) — The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office (EPSO) arrested two people after finding multiple animals living in “deplorable” conditions.
On June 6, EPSO and the Colorado Department of Agriculture were notified of an animal welfare concern at a property in the 17600 block of Boca Raton Heights, in the Midway Ranch area of unincorporated El Paso County near I-25.
Deputies began an investigation and found the property had a history of multiple animal-related complaints. According to EPSO, conditions had significantly deteriorated, affecting the surrounding Midway community due to the inadequate care of several animals. In coordination with the Department of Agriculture and a licensed veterinarian, a warrant was executed.
On June 16, personnel from the Specialized Patrol Unit, Mounted Unit, Patrol Division, Department of Agriculture, the Brand Inspector, and a licensed veterinarian executed the warrant. On scene, law enforcement found various animals living in “deplorable conditions,” many of which were without food or water.
Several chickens were also found dead on the property. Law enforcement seized multiple animals, including two pigs, four goats, three sheep, four rabbits, one dog, two turkeys, six ducks, six quails, and over 20 chickens.
A veterinarian conducted on-site evaluations of each living animal; those who did not require immediate medical intervention were left in place.
“Our partnerships with state and local agencies—including the Colorado Department of Agriculture and the Brand Inspector—are vital to protecting the well-being of both animals and our community,” said El Paso County Sheriff Joseph Roybal. “I appreciate the concerned citizens who brought this situation to our attention, and I commend our deputies for their swift and decisive response.”
Law enforcement charged the owners of the animals, 28-year-old Carlos J. Perez Morales and 46-year-old Clara Torres, with multiple counts of animal cruelty.
A formal notice was issued to the owners requiring them to meet all animal health and welfare standards within 10 days. A follow-up inspection will be conducted to verify compliance, and should deficiencies remain, additional animals will be seized.
