Oct 5, 2008 11:48 pm US/Eastern
Details Emerge After Major Kennel Raid
UPPER MILFORD, Pa. (CBS 3) ―
A Lehigh County kennel owner is facing charges of animal cruelty after dozens of sick and injured animals were found in what is being called the largest SPCA raid in Pennsylvania history.
SPCA officers rescued 65 animals with a variety of health issues, including skin and respiratory problems and eye infections, during a raid of the Almost Heaven Kennel in Upper Milford Township, Lehigh County Wednesday afternoon.
Approximately 20 agents entered the kennel to find roughly 800 animals, including dogs, cats, guinea pigs, monkeys, birds and miniature horses living in deplorable conditions.
The bodies of 65 dogs were also discovered inside the kennel's freezer.
Officials said the owner of Almost Heaven, Derbe Eckhart, is facing two charges of cruelty to animals. He agreed to hand over 100 additional animals to SPCA officials as well as have a veterinarian to examine the remaining creatures.
Investigators said Eckhart has two prior animal cruelty arrests and did jail time twice for mistreating animals.
"Back in 1988, he was charged with starving to death 45 dogs and he failed to pay the fines, so he was sent to prison," Bill Smith, founder of Main Line Rescue said.
Authorities began their investigation after receiving complaints from an informant regarding animal cruelty and dog breeding at the facility.
The 165 animals in the PSPCA's care are currently undergoing medical treatment and will be put up for adoption after they are brought back to health.
In light of the shocking discovery, the kennel did pass a state inspection two months ago. Several of the kennel's customers have come forward to support the owner, saying they have never had an issue.
Investigators said the kennel's license has been revoked following the disturbing discovery.
"I just hope that this is the end of him, I really do, I hope that this is the end of this nightmare for these animals," Smith said.
Eckhart faces a maximum fine of $650 for each charge of cruelty to animals.
(© 2008 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)
