Two men arrested in Joplin animal abuse case

JOPLIN, Mo. — Two people are now in custody related to the discovery of eight puppies left to die outside the Joplin Humane Society on Sunday.

Police say surveillance footage and tips from the public lead to the arrest of Seth Vaile, 30, of Joplin. He is charged with eight misdemeanor counts of animal abuse.

The Jasper County Sheriff’s Office also arrested Samuel Allen, 36, in the case. He’s considered a person of interest.

According to court records, Allen has outstanding warrants, but officials say the investigation is ongoing and additional charges may be filed.

Joplin Humane Society staff found the puppies in a closed plastic tote Sunday afternoon. They say it was left in a spot that was not easy for staff to find.

The shelter’s director posted pictures on social media with a statement about how heartbroken the staff was at the discovery. It was that post, shared by the public, that lead to multiple tips about possible suspects.

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