Two Charged in Manchester Animal Neglect Case

On Monday night, Manchester Police released information about an animal neglect case which has resulted in two people being charged.

The Manchester Police Department executed a search warrant at 608 E Fayette St. in Manchester on Wednesday afternoon, December 11th. This investigation stems from a concern reported by another citizen. During the execution of the search warrant, illegal drug items were located and seized, and neglected animals were rescued. In total, 3 black cats, 25 birds, and 41 rabbits were rescued from the property. One deceased rabbit was found on the property during the execution of the search warrant, and admissions were provided that other animals had been disposed of prior to the execution of the warrant.

The following charges have been filed:

Bradley Donald Gerike, 38, of Manchester:

-Possession of a Controlled Substance – Marijana 2nd Offense – Aggravated Misdemeanor

-Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Simple Misdemeanor

-69 Counts – Animal Neglect – No Injury – Simple Misdemeanor

-Animal Neglect – Serious Injury or Death – Aggravated Misdemeanor

-Failure to Dispose of Dead Animal – Simple Misdemeanor

Donald Lynn Schmitt, 36, of Manchester:

-69 Counts – Animal Neglect – No Injury – Simple Misdemeanor

-Animal Neglect – Serious Injury or Death – Aggravated Misdemeanor

-Failure to Dispose of Dead Animal – Simple Misdemeanor

The Manchester Police Department was assisted by the City of Manchester Animal Control, Delaware County EMA, Department of Agriculture, and Dubuque Regional Humane Society.

Police note that all those associated with this case are assumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.