Peekskill Woman Now Charged With Animal Cruelty: DA

PEEKSKILL, NY — A Westchester woman has been indicted after law enforcement found neglected animals in her home. Prosecutors described a horrific scene.

Westchester County District Attorney Susan Cacace announced on Wednesday that a Peekskill woman was charged with three counts of animal cruelty over the condition of three young dogs in her custody. The DA's office noted that the charge of animal cruelty is a class A misdemeanor, and is not bail eligible.

Shannon Deleg, 33, of Peekskill, was scheduled to be arraigned on a misdemeanor on Thursday before Peekskill City Court Judge Lissette Fernandez.

SEE ALSO: Peekskill Mom Arrested For Starving 3 Dogs: SPCA Westchester

"I am outraged by the conduct alleged here today," DA Cacace said. "Our four-legged companions have no ability to speak for or defend themselves against abuse or neglect. But my office will always stand ready to speak for them. I am deeply grateful for the dedicated efforts of our partners at SPCA Westchester. With their partnership, we will continue the work of making Westchester safe for all its residents."

Prosecutors allege that Deleg owned three Terrier mix dogs, each between one to two years of age.

"Red," a young female, was found emaciated, fifteen pounds underweight and covered in feces and urine, according to the misdemeanor information. These conditions caused the dog "to unjustifiably suffer and to experience unjustifiable physical pain," according to the misdemeanor information. "Red" was barely able to walk due to lack of muscle mass and that she had experienced a life of starvation and negligence, according to the veterinarian's deposition.

The two other dogs, "Giru" and "Luna," were also allegedly found to be underweight, emaciated, and covered in feces and urine.

DA Cacace commended the investigatory work of SPCA Westchester.

The three dogs were surrendered to the custody of SPCA Westchester, which is a no-kill animal rescue center located in Briarcliff Manor and is not affiliated with any national animal welfare organizations. Find out more about SPCA Westchester here.