Woman Arrested After Dead Dog Found Tied To Tree On Long Island

WEST BABYLON, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) -- A Long Island woman was arrested after officials said they found a dead dog tied to a tree on her property, along with five other dogs in poor health.

A rescue group called the Suffolk County SPCA to a home on South 27th Street in Wyandanch on Saturday.

When detectives arrived they found the deceased animal as well as five other dogs, including three puppies, on the property that appeared to be extremely emaciated, Suffolk County SPCA Chief Roy Gross told 1010 WINS.

"You could see the other dogs' skin and bones," Gross said.

Veterinarians determined the animals were severely dehydrated and malnourished, Gross said.

Veleda Bailey, 35, was arrested Sunday afternoon and charged with animal cruelty. Gross said she admitted that she was responsible for the dogs and had not fed them for approximately two weeks.

"It appears that she was just indifferent about it," Gross said. "When the officers were there and the rescue group was there, she was barbecuing hamburgers. So there is no excuse for this."

"If she was in need of help she could've reached out to either the Suffolk County SPCA, she could've reached out to any of the shelters, she could've called someone that would've stepped up and helped her," Gross said. "We've given out over the years tons of food to people in need."

Bailey faces up to a year in jail or a $1,000 fine if convicted.

She is due back in court on Jan. 30.