***UPDATE***
On June 14, 2022, Randolph County Sheriff’s Office Patrol Division Sergeant went to a residence on Sandalwood Dr. in Denton in an attempt to serve a criminal summons for livestock running at large on Melina Kay Robinson but was unable to locate her. While there, the deputy observed signs of animal neglect, so a referral was made to Randolph County Animal Services. Animal Services employees attempted to speak with the homeowner the same day, but the homeowner was not located. Animal Services requested that the Sheriff’s Office assist them in a follow up at a later date.
On June 17, 2022, deputies responded with Randolph County Animal Services to check on the welfare of the dogs. Deputies and Animal Services Officers made contacted with Robinson who gave consent for a welfare check of the animals that she had on the property. The Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division respond to the scene for further investigation. After a consent search was performed, it was evident that serious neglect had gone on for some time on numerous animals.
A search warrant was obtained and executed by detectives, which resulted in numerous animals being seized from the residence that were taken into custody by Randolph County Animal Services for urgent medical care and rehabilitation. Twelve of those seized animals were taken directly to veterinarian clinics, as it appeared they were the most critical. All of these animals are receiving treatment.
As a result of the search warrant on the home, forty-four (44) dogs, seven (7) cats, one (1) rabbit, one (1) bird), one (1) guinea pig, and one (1) turtle; a total of fifty-five (55) animals were seized from the home and property, due to poor living conditions, malnourishment of the majority of the animals, lack of basic dietary needs, and obvious untreated wounds on some animals.
Following the investigation on scene, Melina Kay Robinson was arrested and transported to the Randolph County Detention Center where the magistrate found probable cause for charges of 10 counts of Felony Cruelty to Animals. She was given a $25,000 secured bond and a first appearance was set for the afternoon of June 20, 2022, in Randolph County District Court.
On June 20, 2022, Randolph County Animal Services reports that the twelve dogs taken for medical care are back in their custody and are in stable condition. Randolph County Animal Services has begun coordinating appointments for the remaining animals with local veterinarian clinics. This process will likely to take some time due to the total number of animals seized.
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On June 14, 2022, Randolph County Sheriff’s Office Patrol Division responded to a residence on Sandalwood Dr. in Denton in an attempt to serve a criminal summons on a person at the home. The deputy observed signs of animal neglect, so a referral was made to Randolph County Animal Control. Animal Control attempted to speak with the homeowner the same day, but the homeowner was not there. Animal Control requested that the Sheriff’s Office assist them in a follow up at a later date.
On June 17, 2022, deputies responded with Animal Control to check on the welfare of the dogs. Deputies and animal control officers felt that there were obvious signs of serious neglect, and had the Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division respond to the scene for further investigation.
A search warrant was obtained and executed by detectives, which resulted in numerous animals being seized from the residence and were taken into custody by Randolph County Animal Services for urgent medical care and rehabilitation Twelve of those seized animals were taken directly to veterinarian clinics, as it appeared they were the most critical.
Following the investigation on scene, Melina Kay Robinson was arrested and transported to the Randolph County Detention Center where the magistrate found probable cause for charges of 10 counts of Felony Cruelty to Animals. She was given a $25,000 secured bond and a first appearance was set for June 20, 2022, in Randolph County District Court.
This investigation is ongoing and additional charges may be forthcoming.
Name of Defendant:
Melina Kay Robinson
Age: 68