ND Man Pleads to Animal Abuse in Seizure Case

FARGO, N.D. (AP) — Sentencing has been scheduled Jan. 6 for a North Dakota man accused of neglecting about 170 dogs at an apparent puppy mill at his rural Wheatland home.

Fifty-one-year-old Darcy Smith on Wednesday entered an Alford plea to misdemeanor animal abuse. That means he does not admit guilt but acknowledges there is enough evidence to convict him.

Authorities seized the animals from Smith's home in July. He later waived his rights to the animals and they were put up for adoption.

KFGO radio reports that Smith could face up to a year in jail and a $2,000 fine. Prosecutor Leah Viste tells the Forum the state will seek a sentence that prohibits Smith from owning any more dogs.