Skip to Content

Starving and Dead Animals Found, Ohio Man Charged

Published:

Author:
Author Waldemar Mopera

Various dog breeds inside a cage.
Various dog breeds inside a cage. Image via Pexels

In one of the most shocking animal cruelty cases to hit Ohio in recent years, deputies in Madison County arrested 42-year-old Stephen Gossmeyer after finding a scene straight out of a horror movie on his property. 

On March 14, 2025, officers, joined by a probation official, searched his home in response to complaints of suspected animal neglect and probation violations.

“Sheriff Speaks About Finding Dead Dogs,” Source: YouTube, Uploaded: NBC4 Columbus

What they found was heartbreaking: the remains of nine dogs, left to rot, along with a house full of exotic pets barely clinging to life. Malnourished parrots sat in filth-covered cages. Reptiles like snakes, lizards, and frogs were found with little to no food or proper habitat. Even spiders were among the mix, left without the basic care needed for survival.

False Claims and Fraudulent Promises

Different dog breeds coexist in a shelter.
Different dog breeds coexist in a shelter. Image via Pexels

It didn’t stop at neglect. According to investigators, Gossmeyer had been entrusted by multiple owners to train their dogs, many of which were found dead. He reportedly told clients he was working with the U.S. Border Patrol to train dogs for service—an outright lie. The agency confirmed there was no such arrangement.

This wasn’t Gossmeyer’s first brush with the law, either. He was on probation following a 2022 conviction for theft by deception, and authorities say this case shows a clear pattern of manipulation and dishonesty, now with fatal consequences for the animals involved.

Animal rights advocates having a peaceful protest.
Animal rights advocates having a peaceful protest. Image via Pexels

Authorities arrested Gossmeyer and charged him with multiple offenses, including animal cruelty and tampering with records. He remains in custody at the Madison County jail on a $25,000 bond.

Local sheriff John Swaney can’t find words to describe the incident, saying, “It’s one of the most heartbreaking scenes our team has encountered.” Animal rescue groups have also stepped in to help the surviving animals, though several are in critical condition.

As a result, neighbors, who had long suspected something was wrong, are now calling for tougher regulations on who can operate pet training or boarding services, particularly in rural areas where oversight is often lacking.

Latest posts by Waldemar Mopera (see all)