Woman arrested on animal cruelty charges after neglected animals were rescued in DeLand, deputies say

ORLANDO, Fla. – A Florida woman is facing multiple animal cruelty charges after authorities said she rescued neglected animals from her DeLand residence.

Ashley Taryn Boucher, 37, was arrested Monday on 20 counts of aggravated cruelty to animals and eight counts of confining animals without adequate food, water or exercise. The charges stem from the deplorable conditions at their home at 318 E. Beresford Ave. were discovered, investigators said.

Responding to a health check initiated by a concerned visitor, officers said they encountered a disturbing scene. They said they discovered numerous animals at the residence, including dogs, a turtle, snakes, lizards and a tarantula, all of which appeared to be suffering from malnutrition and neglect.

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Despite efforts to care, several animals, including a young Basset Hound, two cats, three geckos and two birds, were found dead on the property.

When she returned to her home, officers said Boucher admitted she was having a hard time caring for the animals and called the strain “too much.” However, investigators found inconsistencies in her claims, discovering unopened cans of dog food and evidence that she was financially able to care for the animals.

“There is no excuse for this,” Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood tweeted late Monday night. “A shame for anyone who would subject an innocent animal to such a life! If you can’t give your animals the care they need, contact a shelter or rescue.”

Boucher was booked into the Volusia County Branch Jail on felony and misdemeanor charges and faces a total bond of $54,000.