After pictures of her went viral on the internet, the woman accused of throwing a litter of puppies in a garbage bin on a hot day in Coachella, Calif., has been arrested.
Riverside County Animal Services told Fox News Deborah Sue Culwell, 55, was arrested on Monday on suspicion of felony animal cruelty. Officers and animal services also found around 30 dogs at Culwell’s home.
Culwell was seen on video throwing a clear plastic bag, with the seven three-day old puppies in it, in a dumpster behind a Napa Auto Parts store. An hour later, a man named John discovered the puppies while going through the trash.
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“The good Samaritan played a major role in saving theses puppies’ lives,” Riverside County Animal Service Cmdr. Chris Mayer said. “His actions were humane and heroic.”
“There is no excuse for dumping puppies,” he added. “Especially in today’s age when we or other shelters would be willing to get these animals to foster parents or rescue partners. This was a shameful act.”
Authorities say the newborns would not have survived the 90-degree day for very long if they weren’t discovered.
According to BuzzFeed News, officials are looking into pursuing a felony charge of animal cruelty against Culwell.
