'Appalling Conditions:' Woman Charged With Animal Cruelty Near Lombard

LOMBARD, IL — Seven puppies and three adult dogs were taken from a home in unincorporated Lombard Tuesday as a woman was charged with cruelty to animals and violation of owner's duties. According to police, the animals had been kept in "appalling conditions."

Sharon Manuel, of the 1000 block of Columbine Avenue, was charged with misdemeanor counts of cruelty and violation of owner's duties.

A search warrant was executed by DuPage County Sheriff's Office (DSCO), who were helped by DuPage County Animal Services. The seven puppies who were taken from the home were all about two or three weeks old, per a news release from DSCO.

"Thanks to the coordinated efforts of Sheriff's Detectives and DuPage County Animal Services, these neglected animals were rescued from appalling conditions, and we take animal cruelty very seriously here in DuPage County," DuPage County Sheriff Mendrick said in a statement.

"These rescued dogs are in the care of DuPage County Animal Services," Mendrick said, encouraging residents to donate to the shelter.

According to DuPage County State's Attorney Robert Berlin, one animal had been tied up on a leash "so short he could not even lay down" and was left without water and food throughout the night.

Berlin said, "Our pets deserve our love and compassion and should not be subject to the type of inhumane treatment as alleged in this case. I thank DuPage County Sheriff James Mendrick and his office for their work on this case."

Manuel is set to appear in court on April 4.