CRYSTAL RIVER, Fla. – A Crystal River man who authorities say previously operated a German Shepherd breeding business has been arrested after deputies discovered the decomposed remains of multiple dogs inside his home and rescued six additional dogs living on the property.
The Citrus County Sheriff’s Office announced the arrest of 52-year-old Ryan Michael White on five felony counts of animal cruelty, one count of driving while license suspended or revoked, and an outstanding Citrus County warrant for failure to appear related to a previous suspended license charge.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded Sunday, July 12, to a residence on West Sandra Street to conduct a welfare check.
After receiving no answer at the door, deputies noticed an open window. As they approached, they immediately detected a strong odor of decomposition, feces and ammonia coming from inside the home.
Looking through the window, deputies observed the decomposed remains of multiple dogs and requested assistance from Citrus County Animal Control officers.
While deputies were investigating, White returned to the residence driving a vehicle. Authorities said he was operating the vehicle despite having a suspended or revoked driver’s license, resulting in an additional criminal charge.
Investigators determined White, who was known locally as the former owner of Elite German Shepherds, was the sole caretaker of the animals at the property.
In addition to the deceased animals found inside the residence, deputies and animal control officers removed six adult dogs from the property. The dogs were transported to Citrus County Animal Services, where they are receiving emergency veterinary evaluations.
Authorities said additional criminal charges could be filed depending on the results of those examinations.
Sheriff David Vincent described the conditions inside the home as disturbing and said the case highlights the devastating consequences of animal neglect.
The investigation remains ongoing.
Anyone with information about suspected animal abuse or neglect is encouraged to contact the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office at 352-249-2790 or submit an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers of Citrus County by calling 1-888-ANY-TIPS (1-888-269-8477).