HUDSON, N.H. — A Hudson woman is facing animal‑cruelty charges after police say a dog and her seven newborn puppies were found living in dangerous conditions inside a detached garage.
The Hudson Police Department said the discovery that led to the arrest of 50‑year‑old Candice Riley came after an Animal Control officer and a patrol officer responded to a residence on May 31 following repeated complaints about persistent dog barking. Inside the garage, police allegedly found a Cane Corso that had recently given birth, along with her litter of seven puppies.
According to police, the animals were surrounded by trash and debris, exposed electrical wires, batteries, deteriorating drywall and an open container of gasoline placed near their food and water bowls. The puppies were allegedly resting on several soiled blankets.
Animal Control determined the mother and puppies needed to be removed immediately due to the alleged unsafe conditions. A follow‑up investigation later found the dog had originally delivered 10 puppies, but three did not survive.
Police said Riley was not at the residence when the animals were taken but was later identified as the legal owner. Police obtained an arrest warrant and took her into custody on Wednesday at her Hudson home without incident.
The address of the residence where the dogs were kept was not released by police.
Riley is charged with eight counts of cruelty to animals, all Class A misdemeanors.
She was released on personal recognizance bail and is scheduled to be arraigned on Tuesday in the 9th Circuit Nashua District Court.
In a press release announcing the arrest, the Hudson Police Department thanked the Animal Rescue League of New Hampshire for assisting with care and rehoming of the animals.
Follow Aaron Curtis on X @aselahcurtis, or on Bluesky @aaronscurtis.bsky.social.
Original article
Comments