Adams County Sheriff’s Office, Adams County Animal Management and Colorado Department of Agriculture lead an investigation into suspected animal abuse and neglect
STRASBURG, Colo. (Thursday, October 16, 2025) – On Wednesday, Oct. 15, 2025, at approximately 11 a.m., Adams County Sheriff’s Office deputies and Animal Management officers responded to a residence at 9990 Defoe St. to assist with an inspection warrant issued with the Colorado Department of Agriculture’s Animal Health Division/Pet Animal Care and Facilities Act (PACFA) Program.
Upon arrival, deputies and animal management officers inspected the property. During the investigation, 33 dogs were discovered living in poor conditions. The home was found to be filled with feces, creating a significant health hazard. Several dogs were also confined in kennels without access to water.
Due to the severity of the conditions, detectives from ACSO obtained and executed a search warrant for the property and removed the dogs from the residence. ACAM transported them to the Riverdale Animal Shelter for care and evaluation.
“It has been an extraordinary year for Riverdale Animal Shelter, with an unusually high number of mass impounds,” said Stephanie Wilde, Riverdale Animal Shelter Director. “It’s heartbreaking so many animals in our community, including these 33 dogs, have been found living in such difficult conditions. We’re grateful to our law enforcement and animal management partners for their work protecting these vulnerable animals and to our community for their ongoing support.”
Animal Management issued misdemeanor summonses to the homeowners, Robert Attleson (DOB: 05/04/1948) and Melissa Mengel (DOB: 09/10/1959), for Animal Cruelty under Colorado Revised Statutes § 18-9-202(1)(a).
The investigation was a collaborative effort between ACSO, ACAM, and the Colorado Department of Agriculture.
Anyone who suspects animal abuse or hoarding is encouraged to contact the ACSO or ACAM at 303-288-1535.
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