ROCHESTER, NY – In a shocking case of animal cruelty, three Florida residents were arrested after authorities discovered 50 animals living in deplorable conditions in a Fort Pierce home. Kelly Anne Murphy, 44, Kimberly Renee Murphy, 43, and Brandon James Lyvers, 34, face 100 criminal charges each, including 50 felony counts of cruelty to an animal and 50 counts of unlawfully confining an animal without sufficient food or water.
The St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office, responding to a follow-up visit from a May complaint, found the animals in severe neglect. The residence, located in the 4900 block of Amy Lane, was covered in both human and animal feces, with garbage piled to the ceiling in some places. The living conditions were described as horrendous, with no fresh food or water available for either human or animal consumption, and the house lacked running water and fresh air.
Upon their arrival, deputies encountered a distressing scene. Many of the 49 dogs and one cat seized were extraordinarily emaciated and malnourished. A deputy described one dog as “skin and bones,” with ribs and hip bones visibly protruding. Another dog, a white hound, was found in deplorable condition and had to be euthanized due to apparent suffering. This dog had been defecating out of plastic bags, highlighting the extreme neglect it faced. Tragically, another dog died two days after being seized despite being on an intensive care routine.
The living room, bathrooms, and kitchen of the house were in a state of extreme filth, with surfaces very slippery due to being covered in feces, urine, and garbage. The stench of ammonia and feces was overwhelming. When deputies arrived, they had to wake Brandon Lyvers, sleeping inside the residence.
The Murphys claimed that no one lived at the residence, but neighbors contradicted this statement, saying the sisters and Lyvers were frequently there. During an interview with detectives, Lyvers admitted to living at the residence with the Murphy sisters for about three years. Two juvenile victims, whose names, ages, and relationships to the suspects were redacted, were also found in the house. They appeared dirty and as though they had not bathed in a while.
St. Lucie County Sheriff Ken Mascara expressed his shock at the conditions in the home, describing them as “sickening.” With extensive experience in law enforcement, Mascara found the situation particularly disturbing, stating that it had affected him to the point of losing his appetite.
This case highlights the severe consequences of animal neglect and cruelty. The authorities continue their investigation, and the individuals involved face significant legal repercussions for their actions. The animals rescued from this situation now receive the care and attention they desperately need.