Wheatland 170 Dog Owner Not Charged…Yet

WHEATLAND, N.D. (AP) — The owner of 170 dogs seized from an apparent puppy mill in southeastern North Dakota says he is cooperating with authorities.

Fifty-one-year-old dog breeder Darcy Smith declined further comment to The Forum newspaper. Smith has not been charged with a crime, though Cass County prosecutors are reviewing the case.

Authorities on Wednesday seized the dogs from what they said were cramped and filthy conditions at a rural property near Wheatland. The dogs were taken to a veterinarian in Casselton.

Fargo pet store owner Shaun Evanson says he bought dogs from Smith but didn't know about the alleged poor conditions on Smith's property. He says he won't buy from Smith anymore.