Valleyview RCMP became aware of possible animals in distress at the two locations of In The Woods Animals Rescue in Alberta on October 28th and with assistance from Canadian Animal Task Force and Alberta Animal Rescue Crew Society, Valleyview RCMP executed a search warrant on the properties.

Over 300 animals in varying states of distress, both physically and mentally, were located and rescued. RCMP say many were deprived of basic necessities, including veterinary care and humane living conditions.

RCMP have charged 69-year-old Sheryl Woods and 67-year-old Cheryl Bastien with Willful neglect of animals, Causing unnecessary suffering – both are Criminal Code offenses -and they were charged under the Animal Protection Act with Permitting animals to be in distress.

Cst. Dayna Serafin of Valleyview RCMP said, “I am grateful for the coordinated efforts of the Canadian Animal Task Force, the Alberta Animal Rescue Crew Society and more than 16 animal welfare agencies from across Alberta – along with the support from Valleyview town Councillor Ken Wittig and several local businesses. Together, we were able to immediately place these animals into safe environments where they are receiving the care they need.”