MUSCATINE, Iowa–On Thursday Feb. 10, the Muscatine Police Department received an anonymous tip regarding allegations of animal neglect occurring at 150 Main Street in Fruitland. The tip alleged that a couple lived in a mobile home with an excessive amount of dogs. The tipper suspected overcrowded conditions in the mobile home could cause severe health issues for the dogs.

Muscatine Animal Control Officer Courtney Patel investigated the anonymous tip and discovered that an excessive amount of dogs housed in the mobile home, and identified concerns of overcrowding and unsanitary conditions. In conjunction with the Muscatine Police Department, a search warrant was obtained for removal of the animals.

On Thursday Feb. 10, the Muscatine Police Department, with assistance from Muscatine Animal Control and the Muscatine Humane Society, accessed the residence at 150 Main Street and rescued the animals. In total, they rescued 42 dogs were rescued from inside the mobile home. The investigators considered the conditions in the mobile home unsafe for the animals due to the excessive amount of animal waste present, as well as a lack of access to adequate food and medical care.

In accordance with Iowa Code 717B.5, which outlines the rescue of threatened animals, the Muscatine Police Department worked with the Muscatine Humane Society to take over possession, care, and maintenance of the animals while the investigation continues. The animals remain with the Muscatine Humane Society until dispositional proceedings can be held.

The investigation remains ongoing and any criminal charges are pending.