A Raleigh woman is facing six counts of animal cruelty after police say they found skeletal remains and tortured animals at her home.
Karen Tupman, 66, was arrested Friday by the Wake County Sheriff's Office. Deputies described "stepping into a house so shockingly vile that describing it doesn't do it justice."
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Inside the home, deputies found three dog skeletons in crates surrounded by feces. The documents said that Tupman caused the animals' suffering to the point of death.
They also said that Tupman was actively trying to foster additional animals. She was reported to the authorities by a veterinarian after the animals she brought in were found to be severely underweight.
Tupman has no prior criminal history, and her bond was set at $50,000. She has yet to post bail.
The warrant also states that the allegations and evidence raise serious concerns about what might happen if the defendant were released on less restrictive conditions.
Tupman is facing the following charges:
- Three charges of felony cruelty to animals, stating she tortured, mutilated, maimed, cruelly beat, disfigured, poisoned, or killed an animal, unidentified skeletonized deceased dogs #1, #2, and a third dog, a Yorkie named Mazie.
- Three charges of misdemeanor cruelty to animals, stating that she intentionally deprived three kittens of food and water.