A Crystal River man known locally as a German Shepherd breeder was arrested on animal cruelty charges after multiple dead puppies were allegedly found inside his home.
On Sunday, July 12, Citrus County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a residence located on W Sandra Street in Crystal River to conduct a routine well-being check. After receiving no response at the front door, deputies approached an open window, where they immediately detected “strong odors of decay, feces, and ammonia” from inside the house, according to CCSO.
The sheriff’s office stated that the “rotted remains” of numerous dogs were observed through the open window, prompting deputies to request immediate assistance from animal control officers.
Shortly after deputies contacted the homeowner and former owner of Elite German Shepherds, identified as 52-year-old Ryan Michael White, he returned to the residence in a vehicle that he was driving. The deputies reportedly determined that White was the “sole caretaker of the animals on the property.”
White was placed under arrest, booked into Citrus County Jail, and charged with the following: five felony counts of animal cruelty and one count of driving while license suspended or revoked. CCSO stated that at the time of his arrest, White also had an active local warrant for failing to appear in court regarding a previous driving-related offense.
According to the sheriff’s office, deputies successfully rescued six adult dogs from the Crystal River property and transported the animals to Citrus County Animal Services for urgent veterinary examinations. White could face additional criminal charges pending the results of those medical evaluations.
“Our deputies and Animal Control Officers see the consequences of cruelty firsthand, and it’s something that stays with you,” said Citrus County Sheriff David Vincent in a statement. “What happened inside that home is disturbing and completely avoidable. It’s unfortunate that animals pay the price for irresponsible humans. We will continue to prosecute those who harm innocent animals to the fullest extent possible.”
Authorities are urging anyone with additional information regarding suspected animal neglect or abuse at the Crystal River property to contact the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office at 352-249-2790. Anonymous tips can also be submitted by calling 1-888-ANY-TIPS (1-888-269-8477).