Owners of 46 animals seized in Pawtucket criminally charged

PAWTUCKET, R.I. (WLNE) — The Pawtucket Police Department said that the owners of 46 dogs seized at a Pawtucket home were criminally charged.

Lt. Joseph Skahan said that 66-year-old Helena Galvao and 69-year-old Jose Galvao were charged on April 17 with 46 misdemeanor counts of unnecessary cruelty under the animal cruelty statute for failing to provide the dogs with adequate living conditions.

Skahan added that the statute carries a maximum penalty of a 11 month prison sentence and a $500 fine per count.

Both are scheduled to be arraigned on May 7.

Authorities said most of the dogs will be available for adoption soon, and applications can be submitted here.

The Potter League, RISPCA, PARL, and FOHARI are also accepting applications.