Woman accused of fake animal rescue freed without bail/Image: Getty Images
A California woman accused of operating a fake animal rescue while allegedly keeping dozens of dogs in filthy, overcrowded conditions has been released without bail despite facing multiple animal cruelty charges.Priscilla Martin, 33, pleaded not guilty in an Orange County court to three felony counts of animal cruelty by a caretaker, 11 misdemeanour counts of animal cruelty by a caretaker and one misdemeanour count of unlawfully disposing of a dead animal, The New York Post reported.Prosecutors had asked the court to set bail at $50,000, arguing the seriousness of the allegations justified keeping Martin in custody. However, Orange County Superior Court Commissioner Eric Isaac ordered her release on the condition that she does not own, possess or have access to any animals while the case is ongoing.The investigation began on 4 July after Newport Beach police responded to reports of several dogs locked inside a vehicle parked in extreme heat.Officers found 18 dogs inside the car, including 14 confined in crates and pet carriers. According to prosecutors, the animals had no access to water, were covered in faeces, and several were suffering from heat-related distress.Animal control officers rescued 14 dogs, most of them puppies. Authorities said 13 were suffering from intestinal parasites, while two six-week-old Golden Retriever puppies were found in critical condition because of severe untreated infestations. One of the puppies was later euthanised, while the other survived and is recovering.The investigation widened days later after Irvine police discovered the body of a dead dog allegedly linked to Martin. Prosecutors said surveillance footage showed her removing the dog’s body from her vehicle before leaving it in bushes. A post-mortem examination concluded the animal died from heat stroke, consistent with prolonged exposure inside a hot vehicle.On 22 July, investigators again encountered Martin in Costa Mesa, where she was allegedly found with another 14 dogs inside her vehicle. The animals were removed and taken for veterinary assessment before Martin was arrested.Prosecutors also allege Martin falsely claimed on social media to operate a registered non-profit rescue organisation called K9 Paws Rescue, also known as Canine Paws Rescue. However, investigators said California’s Registry of Charities and Fundraisers has no record of either organisation despite registration being required to solicit charitable donations.If found guilty, Martin could be sentenced to up to 15 years and 10 months in state prison.
