Beltrami County (trfnews.i234.me) – A disturbing case of alleged animal torture has emerged from Bemidji, Minnesota, where 35-year-old Patrick Francis Walsh faces a misdemeanor charge for overworking or mistreating animals, stemming from shocking conditions found inside his trailer home.
Authorities say they launched an investigation after Headwaters Veterinary Center reported Walsh brought in a puppy smelling of feces and claimed a dog had fallen through the floor. Deputies later discovered up to 22 dogs inside Walsh’s trailer, living in several inches of feces and urine, with holes in the floor, rusted cages, and ammonia levels far above safe limits.
Despite repeated welfare checks and Walsh’s promises to improve conditions, investigators noted no measurable progress. Eventually, 18 dogs were seized from the home, all suffering from parasites, malnutrition, and lack of care. Four additional dogs were found dead on the property, including one allegedly killed by another dog.
Veterinarians concluded the dogs endured “unnecessary and unjustifiable pain and suffering.”
Walsh has a prior record of animal-related violations, including allowing dogs to kill livestock. He now faces a misdemeanor charge of animal torture, carrying up to 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.