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Humane Society of Greater Rochester

Lollypop Farm Humane Law Enforcement Arrest Local Animal Exhibitor on Animal Cruelty Charges


Fairport, NY (March 18, 2022) – Humane Law Enforcement investigators arrested Sally Reaves (72) in connection with the neglect of hundreds of animals at her facility, World of Wildlife Educational Encounters, located in Marion, N.Y.

Working in conjunction with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) police officers, Lollypop Farm Humane Law Enforcement Department investigators discovered hundreds of animals both domesticated and exotic living in inhumane conditions. Reaves has been charged with failure to provide proper food and drink under Section 356. This law protects animals impounded or confined requiring that they be provided good and wholesome air, food, shelter, and water. Nearly 800 animals including rats, mice, guinea pigs, degus, ferrets, and rabbits, were seized from the facility on Monday, March 14th and brought to Lollypop Farm in need of immediate care.

“The conditions these animals were discovered in were unsanitary and inhumane. Soiled, 10-gallon terrariums were discovered each with over 100 mice living crammed together,” describes Vice-President for Humane Law Enforcement Reno Di Domenico. “Ammonia levels due to excrement made it difficult for staff working with the animals, but we were able to safely remove nearly 800 animals living in these conditions. We are happy to share, these pets are now in clean habitats and being cared for by Lollypop Farm’s veterinary and shelter staff.”

Among the animals recovered were 475 mice, 155 rats, 42 rabbits, 25 guinea pigs, 48 degus, 6 spiny mice, 5 pigs, and 2 ferrets with multiple litters of babies being born daily. Lollypop Farm veterinary and shelter staff have been working to examine each animal to ensure all ailments are being cared for and to prevent the spread of disease among the population.
Reaves has been ordered to appear at Marion Town Court on April 6, 2022 at 6 p.m. The misdemeanor offense could lead up to a $1,000 fine and/or up to 1 year in prison.

Lollypop Farm maintains an SPCA designation and its Humane Law Enforcement Department is charged with investigating and enforcing the animal cruelty laws of New York State. Serving Monroe, Orleans, Livingston, and Genesee counties, Lollypop Farm plays a critical role in addressing animal cruelty in the community. These humane law enforcement officers are certified state peace officers with the authority to make arrests and seize animals being abused or neglected. Lollypop Farm and its Humane Law Enforcement Department receive no tax dollars or government funding to provide this community service.

To report suspected animal cruelty, call the Lollypop Farm Animal Cruelty Hotline at (585) 223-6500 or 911 for immediate life-threatening situations.

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About Lollypop Farm, Humane Society of Greater Rochester: Established in 1873, Lollypop Farm is the largest animal welfare organization helping pets and people in the Greater Rochester area. Lollypop Farm is committed to creating a just and compassionate world for all animals. Together with our community, we better the lives of animals through justice, prevention, and life-saving care. With a main campus located in Fairport and three other adoption centers throughout the community, the organization provides shelter, care, and adoption for dogs, cats, small animals, birds, reptiles, horses, and other farm animals. Lollypop Farm is an independent nonprofit organization supported through donations and program fees. For more information and to meet current animals available for adoption, please visit www.lollypop.org.