A jury has found a Grove City couple guilty of 20 counts of animal cruelty. The Columbus City Attorney announced the verdict on Monday.
Authorities investigated Douglas and Britny Devaul for animal care both at their home and at a retail pet store called The Petting Zoo on West Broad Street. The store was previously known as Grove City Reptiles.
Dozens of individuals filed complaints that they purchased puppies who died soon after the sale.
Authorities found minor animal care violations at first inspection, but by August of last year, they found unsanitary overcrowded conditions with inadequate food and water.
Law enforcement seized nearly 200 animals, half of which were dogs, and many of which were suffering from untreated diseases.
Sentencing for the Devauls is scheduled for the beginning of 2021.
