Amelia Millis (Source: BCSO)
Andrew Millis (Source: BCSO)BRUNSWICK COUNTY, NC (WECT) - An anonymous tip led deputies with the Brunswick and New Hanover County Sheriff's Offices to make two arrests following a suspected puppy mill raid, saving over 160 animals in total on Friday.
Authorities say two suspects, Amelia and Andrew Millis, have been arrested, and they will be charged with multiple counts of animal cruelty and could face other charges.
Deputies worked with members of the SPCA and the Humane Society of the U.S. to make the bust. Over 130 dogs were found inside and outside of the Millis' home, located on Maco Road in Leland. Most of the dogs were found packed together in cages with no air conditioning and limited access to food and water, according to authorities on the scene.
The raid was initially planned for next week, but according to Brunswick County Sheriff John Ingram, the conditions were so bad, they had to take action earlier.
"Personally I've never seen anything quite like this," Sheriff John Ingram said. "The inside of the residences and behind the residence are some of the worst conditions I've ever experienced on anything I've ever been on."
Kim Alboum, the North Carolina State Director for the HSUS said, "these are the worst conditions I have ever seen."
Authorities secured warrants Friday to search two homes: the Millis' home in Leland, and another in New Hanover County near UNCW.
Sgt. Jerry Brewer with the New Hanover County Sheriff's Office says the dogs found in Wilmington, which are all puppies, are in good condition for now. There were about 30 in several cages, and they had air conditioning, food, water and clean cages.
The location near UNCW is where authorities believe the puppies from the suspected mill in Leland were taken to be sold.
Both Brunswick and New Hanover County Sheriff's Offices will continue to investigate the case and determine how many charges the Millis' will face.
The dogs will be distributed to shelters and organizations across the state. To get more information about adopting some of the puppies, contact the Wake County SPCA, Brunswick County RACE Foundation, Guilford County Animal Shelter or the Charlotte Humane Society.
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