OAK HILL, WV (LOOTPRESS) — A disturbing case of animal neglect unfolded Tuesday morning after law enforcement and animal control officers responded to a home on Allman Street following an animal cruelty complaint.
According to the Fayette County Sheriff’s Department, K-9 Corporal J.M. Wickline and Animal Control arrived at 109 Allman Street around 10:00 a.m. on May 20, 2025, where they encountered residents Cody Golden and Angel Miller. The two were hesitant to allow officers inside but agreed to bring the dogs out one by one.
What officers saw was heartbreaking: every dog appeared malnourished, with visible ribs and hip bones. The residents were unable to provide any food, medical records, or proof of care for the animals.
Due to the condition of the dogs and suspicions of more animals inside, authorities entered the home—only to discover a grisly scene.
Inside, officers found three dead hedgehogs—two in a crate and one lying on top—as well as another severely underfed dog that had not been shown to them. Additional cats and kittens were found in poor condition. Animal feces, urine, trash, and debris covered the floors and furniture, and the stench of ammonia was so strong that it caused burning eyes and difficulty breathing for those on scene.
Authorities removed six dogs, three cats, and two kittens from the residence. One of the dogs later passed plastic bag-like material in its stool, suspected to be a drug baggie, according to Corporal Wickline’s narcotics training.
A third resident, Crystal Arp, was also identified as a co-owner of some of the animals. She will be charged alongside Golden and Miller.
All three defendants face 14 misdemeanor counts of animal cruelty. Photographic evidence of the conditions and animals was documented for court proceedings.
Officials described the home as unfit for animals or humans, and the investigation remains ongoing.
All three suspects are being held in the Southern Regional Jail under a 25,000 dollar bond.
