Lawrence County, Mo. – The Humane Society of Missouri’s Animal Cruelty Task Force, working with the Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office and the Missouri Department of Agriculture, rescued over 170 animals from a property on the 4000 block of Lawrence 1225 in September. The rescue prompted additional criminal charges against the property owner, Susan Berry.
Scope of the rescue
Investigators found 101 dogs, five cats, 11 horses, three goats, 47 chickens and three ducks living in severe neglect. All animals were discovered amid piles of trash, overgrown vegetation and dilapidated vehicles, including a school bus. The only water source on the property was a single well and makeshift rain‑catch areas.
New wildlife‑possession charges
Court documents reveal that three foxes were found inside Berry’s home. When asked about a wildlife permit, Berry admitted she had none and claimed she did not need one for the “ranch foxes.” Because the foxes were being kept without a permit and were suffering from neglect, the Humane Society seized them and added three counts of possessing wildlife in captivity without a permit to Berry’s case.
Existing animal‑neglect and theft charges
Berry had already been charged with one count of animal neglect and one count of stealing an animal. The theft allegation stems from a claim that Berry stole a Catahoula Leopard Dog, which the victim identified by its distinctive bark in a video posted to Facebook. The victim reported the dog missing earlier in the year.
Previous interventions at the property
This is the third time the Humane Society has responded to concerns at the Lawrence 1225 location. In 2000, a warrant allowed the removal of 31 dogs. In 2021, after negotiations with the property owner, 27 animals were voluntarily surrendered. The latest rescue marks the largest haul to date.
Judicial ruling and future care
In October, a judge ordered that all rescued animals remain under the care of the Humane Society of Missouri while the criminal case proceeds. Officials say each animal will require individualized medical treatment, behavioral support and time before placement in a permanent home. The organization emphasizes that the goal is to move animals into loving homes, not to keep them in cages or yards indefinitely.
Community involvement
Members of the public who wish to assist the Humane Society with medical care, food, shelter or ongoing support for the rescued animals can donate through the organization’s online portal.
Additional suspect
Steven Morrison has also been charged with one count of animal neglect and one count of stealing an animal in connection with the same investigation.
How to report suspected abuse
Authorities encourage anyone who observes possible animal abuse or neglect to contact their local sheriff’s office promptly.
Original reporting: KY3 Springfield (local) — read the source article.
