Overview
- A criminal search warrant at 1245 SW Alligator Street led deputies to remove at least 36 Border Collies and arrest 62-year-old Paige O'Donnell, with investigators saying more dogs may still be hiding inside the house.
- The operation grew out of repeated contacts since 2020 by Martin County Animal Control and detectives who said fences and limited access forced them to build probable cause before seeking a warrant.
- Sheriff John Budensiek described the interior as heavily soiled with feces, damaged drywall and debris, and said deputies wore protective Tyvek suits to remove skittish, matted dogs covered in filth.
- All animals taken from the property were transported to the Humane Society of the Treasure Coast for veterinary checks, microchip scans and cleaning while officials compile counts and medical assessments.
- The sheriff said prosecutors will pursue numerous felony and misdemeanor counts tied to each animal, a step that could produce dozens of charges as investigators complete the search and vet reports.