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  • February 18, 2025
2 arrested in northern Minnesota animal cruelty case involving 250 cats and dogs – Twin Cities

2 arrested in northern Minnesota animal cruelty case involving 250 cats and dogs – Twin Cities

Two people have been arrested and charged with animal cruelty following an investigation in northern Minnesota involving more than 250 cats and dogs, most of whom were apparently dead and their remains burned.

According to a news release from Beltrami County Sheriff Jason Riggs, the arrests, which occurred Friday, stem from a weeks-long investigation into reports of severe neglect involving hundreds of animals on a rural property near Hines, about 20 miles northeast of Bemidji .

Officers first responded to a home in the 16700 block of Aksarben Lane Northeast on Oct. 21 after receiving a report of possible animal neglect. Officers discovered numerous cats and dogs living in unsanitary and unsafe conditions, with inadequate food, water and ventilation. Many of the animals were visibly in need of medical care, the release said.

These concerns were discussed with the property owners, identified as Debra Marshall and Douglas Erickson, and they were told a follow-up visit would be conducted to ensure the issues were addressed.