WAN Exclusive On The Chandler 55 Animal Abuse Case In Arizona
Karen Lapizco
WAN exclusive on the Chandler 55 animal abuse and hoarding case in Arizona with founder of The Animal Rescue Mission (ARM), Shira Scott Astrof, interviewed by President of Peace 4 Animals, Katie Cleary.
On September 22nd, 2023, the Chandler Police Department received specific information from a veterinary professional regarding the conditions of three animals at a residence in Chandler, Arizona.
After receiving the tip, and with the growing pressure from animal advocates, it prompted a search warrant to be served at the residence in order to check on the welfare of the animals living at the home. That evening, the Chandler Police Department seized 55 dogs from that residence. The animals were then placed in the custody of the Arizona Humane Society for medical attention and care.
On November 14th, 2023, Chandler Police arrested April McLaughlin (also known as Sydney Taylor McKinley) for charges pertaining to the ongoing dog abuse investigation that began in early September.
Investigators submitted 77 misdemeanor charges to the Chandler City Prosecutor for review, and a warrant was issued for her arrest. Detectives arrested April without incident, and she was later booked on the following charges:
13-2910A1 – Cruelty to Animals – Intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly subjects any animal under the person’s custody or control to cruel neglect or abandonment – 49 counts, each a class one misdemeanor.
13-2910A2 – A person commits cruelty to animals if the person does any of the following: Intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly fails to provide medical attention necessary to prevent protracted suffering to any animal under the person’s custody or control – 28 counts, each a class one misdemeanor.
The following additional charges have been submitted to the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office and are pending review:
13-2910A14 – Cruelty to Animals – Intentionally or knowingly subjects a domestic animal to cruel mistreatment – 9 counts, each a class five felony.
13-2910A1 –Cruelty to Animals- Intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly subjects any animal under the person’s custody or control to cruel neglect or abandonment – 9 counts, each a class one misdemeanor.
“This experience was heartbreaking and changed so many of us forever. But it also showed how many incredible people there are who share the need to make this world a better place for animals, who will drop everything to help a dog in need, who will fight passionately alongside strangers because an animal needs their help. Because of how many amazing people banded together to save these dogs, April is in jail and laws are being changed. Let’s keep fighting,” said Shira Astrof, founder of The Animal Rescue Mission.
You can help ARM continue their life-saving work, HERE!
