GREAT FALLS — Cascade County Sheriff Jesse Slaughter said during a news conference on Thursday, August 28, 2025, that his agency is investigating a large-scale animal cruelty case.
Sheriff Slaughter said that on Wednesday, deputies responded to a report about a disturbance involving at least one dog, and the following were found at the property along Eisenhower Drive in Sun Prairie: 37 dogs; four dead dogs; eight cats; one snake; five lizards; and one hedgehog. The deputies also found four dead dogs.
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Living conditions were "not good," both inside and outside, according to Sheriff Slaughter, noting that there were feces and pungent odors throughout the property, including indoors.
The animals were seized and are now being cared for at the Maclean-Cameron Animal Adoption Center (MCAAC) in Great Falls.
Nine dogs were also found at another location on the property, and were deemed to be in good condition and allowed to remain.
Sheriff Slaughter said that volunteers to foster the animals and donations to care for them are needed, as the animals must be vaccinated and cared for as the investigation continues.
Donations can be made via the Sheriff's Legacy Foundation website by clicking here.
For information about fostering an animal, contact the MCAAC by clicking here; donations can also be made directly to the MCAAC by clicking here.
At this point, "person or persons of interest" have been identified, but no arrests have been made, and the investigation continues.
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Sheriff Slaughter also noted that deputies have responded to the property three or four times in the past for similar reports, but there was not enough evidence of cruelty or neglect to warrant further action.
He said that more information will be released in the coming days.
In addition to thanking the MCAAC, Sheriff Slaughter also extended his appreciation to the Great Falls Police Department's Animal Control Officers, and also to Fetch Pet Boutique.
Shortly after the 3 p.m. news conference, Sheriff Slaughter released the following details:
On the afternoon of August 27, 2025, at approximately 1:30 p.m., Cascade County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a complaint of possible animal cruelty at 1323 Eisenhower, Great Falls.
Upon arrival, deputies made contact with the resident, who was cooperative. They observed more than 30 dogs inside the residence and discovered one deceased dog in the living room. Conditions inside the home were extremely poor, with strong ammonia odors and feces covering the floors.
A search warrant was obtained, and investigators—assisted by Cascade County detectives—ultimately recovered:
• 37 living dogs
• 4 deceased dogs
• 8 cats
• 1 snake
• 5 lizards
• 1 hedgehog
An additional nine dogs were found in a separate structure on the property. Those dogs were evaluated by a veterinarian and deemed safe and healthy, so they remain in place. All other animals were seized and transferred to the Maclean Animal Adoption Center for care under the county’s contract.
“This is a complex and heartbreaking case,” said Sheriff Jesse Slaughter. “Animal cruelty touches the hearts of everyone in our community. We are committed to ensuring these animals receive the medical care and safe housing they deserve.”
Veterinarians have begun medical evaluations, and all animals will receive vaccinations and health checks prior to being placed in foster care. Foster families must remain in contact with both the Sheriff’s Office and the Maclean Animal Adoption Center throughout the legal process. Depending on the outcome of the case, foster families may later have the option to adopt the animals.
The investigation remains active. Sheriff Slaughter confirmed that there are persons of interest, and charges are expected soon. Cascade County Attorney Josh Racki will prosecute the case once the investigative and veterinary reports are complete.
Sheriff Slaughter extended his thanks to community partners, including the Great Falls Police Department’s Animal Control Officers Jessica Becker and Janelle Edmond, as well as Ashley Wilkinson from Fetch, who donated food and supplies. He also praised the Maclean Animal Adoption Center for its critical role in housing and caring for the seized animals.
The Sheriff’s Office noted that the cost of veterinary care, vaccinations, and housing will be substantial and beyond the current budget. Community members wishing to help can donate to the Sheriff’s Legacy Foundation. Donations can also be dropped off at the Cascade County Sheriff’s Office, where they will be processed through the Foundation for accountability.
“We can’t do this without the support of our community,” Sheriff Slaughter said. “These animals deserve the proper care, and we are grateful for everyone who is stepping up to help.”
For updates on this investigation, the Sheriff’s Office will provide additional information as it becomes available.
