Police removed dozens of animals from a hobby farm in North Norwich on Wednesday after concerns about animal welfare were shared online by a local resident, including these photos. The Chenango County Sheriff and NY State Police are conducting an animal cruelty investigation, no arrest have been made. (Submitted photo)

NORTH NORWICH - A concerned resident’s plea for help online has resulted in an animal cruelty investigation and the seizure of dozens of animals from a North Norwich home.

On Monday, Lindsey Murphy launched a plea for help online, sharing her experiences and images of horses she said were being neglected by their owner. She contacted the Chenango County Sheriff’s Office, Susquehanna SPCA and local media outlets. She said the horse had “no food, no water and no blankets.”

On Wednesday the New York State Police executed a search warrant at the residence relating to an animal cruelty investigation along Mudge King Road in North Norwich. The Chenango County Sheriff Office assisted with the investigation. Chenango County Sheriff Lt. Jeffrey Barton described the home as operating a hobby farm with a number of animals. He said police seized dozens of animals on Wednesday, including more than 20 horses, sheep, goats, dogs, cats, chickens and a pig.

He said the New York State Police were looking into possible charges pending veterinarian review. He thanked the state police for their aid in the investigation. Barton said the investigation is still open and no criminal determinations were yet made.