PHOENIX — A Gila Bend man was arrested Wednesday after allegedly abandoning 18 dogs without food, water, or shelter for at least two weeks, according to the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office.
John D. Jackson, 38, a suspected backyard breeder, was taken into custody after evading deputies for four days. Authorities said he left 11 adult dogs and seven Cane Corso puppies to suffer in horrific conditions.
Deputies responding to reports of animal cruelty discovered dogs in various stages of abuse, neglect, and death at the property. Some of the animals trapped in the backyard were so desperate they began eating the remains of deceased dogs, MCSO said.
“Disgusting and deplorable” conditions
“It is a disgusting and deplorable act by this person,” said MCSO Chief Deputy Jeff Gentry during a press conference. “Some of the dogs are so sick, we have to wear protective suits just to be near them.”
Veterinarians are treating the surviving animals, who suffer from diseases like worms, eye infections, and PARVO. MCSO’s Animal Safe Haven Unit is overseeing their care. Three deceased dogs were taken for necropsies to determine cause of death. One had decomposed to just bones.
Ongoing investigation and previous cruelty charges
Authorities believe Jackson was using social media to sell the dogs and may not have acted alone. “There are possibly additional suspects,” said MCSO spokesperson Sgt. Joaquin Enriquez.
Jackson is facing felony charges of animal cruelty, and more charges are expected pending veterinary reports. Enriquez said Jackson has a prior animal cruelty case in another Arizona county.
MCSO and advocates crack down on cruelty cases
This case is part of a broader rise in animal cruelty cases in the Valley. MCSO has increased efforts to respond to such crimes, despite staffing shortages. The Arizona Humane Society is also pushing for Senate Bill 1437, which would expand the legal definition of animal abuse in the state.
“We will continue to make these cases a priority,” Gentry said.
