Warwick police filed 25 counts of animal mistreatment against 60‑year‑old Rodrigo Moreira following an investigation at his 42 Fulton Street residence, officials said.
According to the Warwick Post, officers responded to reports of loose dogs in the neighborhood on Tuesday and discovered multiple dogs and puppies left outdoors for extended periods. When they arrived, they observed a strong odor of feces and urine emanating from a shed on the property.
Investigators entered the shed and found several crates containing dogs and puppies. The animals had no accessible food or water, and the crates were littered with urine and animal waste. Police also noted a whelping pen contaminated with feces and lacking water.
Moreira returned home while officers were inspecting the yard and granted permission for a search of the interior of the house. Inside, police located additional dogs and puppies housed in similar unsanitary conditions, all without water.
Based on the findings, officers charged Moreira with mistreating animals and failing to provide adequate care, violations of Rhode Island General Laws 4‑1‑2. All dogs and puppies recovered from the property were taken to the Warwick Animal Shelter for care and evaluation.
The investigation underscores the city’s commitment to enforcing animal‑welfare statutes and protecting vulnerable pets from neglect. Residents are reminded to report suspected animal‑abuse situations promptly to local law‑enforcement agencies.
Sources: warwickpost.com
