A Hallsboro woman was arrested on more than 90 misdemeanor charges of animal cruelty after authorities seized nearly 100 animals from her home. 

The Columbus County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) arrested 70-year-old Deborah Dahl in what Sheriff Bill Rogers said was the largest animal cruelty operation their agency has ever taken on. 

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Dahl was charged with one misdemeanor count of practicing veterinary medicine without a license and 93 misdemeanor counts of cruelty to animals. 

With the help of the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) and Columbus County Animal Protective Services (CCAPS), the investigation began in late May when authorities received multiple tips alleging unlicensed surgical treatments and deplorable living conditions for these animals. 

On May 27, CCSO received an anonymous report alleging Dahl was performing a medical procedure on a dog inside her home without appropriate licensure and training. Photos depicting the procedure were reportedly posted on social media. 

On May 29, CCAPS conducted a welfare check at Dahl’s home in Hallsboro. There, investigators found unsanitary and hazardous living conditions and numerous animals exhibiting signs of neglect. 

The team found dogs pacing on top of their own waste, the air thick with ammonia and the anxious chorus of neglected animals echoing across kennels. Evidence collected at the scene was shared with the North Carolina Department of Agriculture. 

Between June 4 and June 16, interviews were conducted with licensed veterinarians and regulatory agencies to verify the extent of unlicensed veterinary practices and animal cruelty. Based on interview findings, the CCSO consulted with the Columbus County District Attorney’s office, which determined there was probable cause to pursue criminal charges. 

On June 24, at approximately 7:30 a.m., deputies executed arrest warrants and a search warrant at the Pone Hill Road property. Dahl was taken into custody without incident. 

In collaboration with the ASPCA and Columbus County Animal Protective Services, the following animals were seized in temperatures nearing 100 degrees:

  • 76 dogs of various breeds, including Old English Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, Cane Corso, Shih Tzus, and mixed breeds
    • 14 rabbits
      • 1 deceased dog found on site and recovered for forensic examination

        On July 1, detectives presented additional evidence, resulting in 14 further counts of animal cruelty. 

        On July 2, a second search warrant was executed at the same property, where they also found two Highland cows and two donkeys.

        These remaining livestock were removed and transported to CCAPS. Most of the animals were taken to recovery facilities operated by the ASPCA, where they are receiving shelter, medical care and behavioral treatment.

        Rogers stated, “What detectives and animal protection teams encountered at this property was heartbreaking—animals forced to live in filth, many deprived of basic medical care, food and dignity. This investigation began because one person chose to speak up, and it grew into a unified effort to save as many lives as possible. The rescue of these animals is the result of dedicated teamwork and a community that refused to look away. I want to personally thank the ASPCA, Columbus County Animal Protective Services, the Columbus County District Attorney’s Office and every professional who responded with skill and compassion.”

        Photos of Dahl’s arrest and the animals that were rescued can be found on the CCSO’s Facebook page.