Hit and run leads to house full of dead and neglected animals in New Bedford

This morning at approximately 3:10am Officer Jason Orlando was investigating a hit and run accident that led him to the suspect’s home. The hit and run vehicle was there but the suspect was not. (Several parked cars had been struck on nearby Capitol St.)

While peering through a window, the officer noticed that there were several animals inside that appeared to be malnourished and several dogs were barking. Officers eventually gained access to the home with Animal Control Officer Cheryl Jackson. There was feces strewn throughout the home and two dead cats were found. The other animals were alive but appeared in distress.

A total of seven dogs were taken from the home, alive, but in various stages of malnourishment. A third cat was also found alive in the home.

In the backyard shed, skeletal remains of approximately 7 chickens and 3 rabbits were found.

This case, as well as the hit and run, is still under investigation and the suspect was placed under arrest after he arrived home, on foot, at approximately 6:30am. He is currently facing 9 counts of animal cruelty and will be arraigned Monday morning in New Bedford District court.

Danny Santos age 43 of Bream St. New Bedford