Sidman man charged after dead chickens, malnourished dog found on Portage property

CAMBRIA COUNTY, Pa (WJAC) — Authorities in Cambria County say a Sidman man is facing a variety of animal cruelty charges after multiple dead and malnourished animals were discovered on a property in Portage Borough.

Police say 24-year-old Ethan Owens is accused of abandoning multiple animals, including several chickens, a dog and a bearded dragon, at his Orchard Street property.

According to the affidavit, Portage Borough police were called to the residence in November following multiple complaints by neighbors and a jurisdictional dispute with the local humane society.

Police say that during the first visit to the property, officers discovered multiple chickens, a duck and a rooster that were running around without any access to fresh food or water.

Authorities say additional complaints led to the discovery of at least two dead chickens on the property, as well as a malnourished dog that had been left inside the home.

Police say Owens claimed to be visiting the property, on a regular basis, to take care of the dog, however, neighbors reportedly stated that his claim was false.

Investigators say that days after their initial visit, Owens reportedly made arrangements to surrender the dog to a local volunteer, but then refused to meet with the individual.

Police say that when Owens eventually arrived at the property, he reportedly did not check on the chicken coop and was unaware that his chickens had died.

Officials noted that the chickens died from starvation, according to a necropsy.

Police say officers also searched inside the residence, which was reported to be in deplorable condition.

Authorities say officers rescued a dog and a bearded dragon from inside the home, with both animals being in poor health and lacking access to food and water.

According to online court records, Owens was arraigned this week on multiple counts of felony aggravated cruelty to animals, misdemeanor animal cruelty and animal neglect.

He is free on unsecured bail.