Police Dig Up Animal Remains At Rescue Shelter

Summerdale police dig up the remains of as many dogs and cats behind Purple Hearted Puppies.

The owners of the animal rescue shelter, Sharon and Roberta Dueitt, are now wanted on felony animal abuse charges.

Summerdale Police Chief Eddie Ingram tells News 5 they believe the Dueitt's would try to sell dogs they rescued. Any dog they couldn't sell, they'd let starve to death.

News 5 was the only station in Summerdale when police served felony warrants at the Dueitt's home. The Dueitts were not home, but police aer in contact with their attorney and are working on arrangements for the Sharon and her other to surrender.

When the mother and daughter duo are arrested on the new felony animal abuse charges, they will be held without bond.

Police first uncovered the animal abuse case last Thursday. Again, News 5 was the only station there when police raided Purple Hearted Puppies and discovered more than 200 starving dogs and cats. Some of the animals so hungry they ate other animals to survive. Dozens more had died.

Today, the Baldwin County Humane Society was awarded permanent legal custody of the 58 dogs and 51 cats who were seized. Now the animals can be spayed or neutered, be vaccinated and be tested and treated for heartworms.

News 5's Debbie Williams will have the latest in a live report tonight on News 5 at 5:00 and 6:00.