State Police Arrest Oswego County Man Following Animal Neglect Investigation

OSWEGO COUNTY – The New York State Police in Pulaski have arrested Jeffrey D. Zehr, age 45, of Pulaski, NY, following an extensive animal neglect investigation in Oswego County.

On December 19, 2025, State Police received a report of possible animal neglect at 8333 State Route 3 in the town of Pulaski. A Trooper responded to the residence to check on a Great Dane reported to be malnourished and not receiving proper care. The homeowner, Jeffrey D. Zehr, stated the dog had been suffering from worms and fleas and was sick. He was advised to seek proper veterinary care, and State Police planned to follow up.

Subsequent attempts by State Police to re-contact Zehr and observe the animals on the property were unsuccessful, and Zehr became uncooperative. As a result, State Police obtained a search warrant for the residence and surrounding 87-acre property.

On March 13, 2026, at approximately 9:30 a.m., State Police executed the search warrant at the location. During the execution of the warrant, investigators located two .22 caliber rifles inside the residence. The firearms were found in plain view within the home. Further investigation determined that Zehr is a convicted felon, making it illegal for him to possess rifles or shotguns.

Additionally, approximately 140 animals, including some that were pregnant at the time, were located on the property. Due to concerns for their health and welfare, State Police coordinated with the Oswego County SPCA, veterinarians, and animal rescue organizations to safely remove the animals from the property. Each animal was evaluated on scene and documented before being transported to appropriate facilities for further medical care and assessment. Many animals were found to be suffering from malnourishment, infections, and lack of access to adequate food, water, and shelter.

As a result of veterinary evaluations, animals including 11 horses, 15 goats, 8 sheep, 4 cats, and 2 calves, were determined to be neglected and not receiving proper care.

Further investigation revealed widespread unsanitary and unsafe living conditions for both animals and occupants. The residence was ultimately deemed unfit for human occupancy by local code enforcement officials.

On April 25, 2026, Zehr was arrested and was charged with:

•    40 counts of Torturing or Injuring Animals/Failure to Provide Proper Sustenance (Class A misdemeanor) under New York State Agriculture and Markets Law
•    1 count of Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the 4th Degree (Class A misdemeanor)

Zehr was processed at SP Pulaski and issued an appearance ticket returnable to Oswego County CAP Court on May 9, 2026, at 5:30 p.m.

State Police were assisted at the scene by the Oswego County SPCA, North Country Veterinary Services, Oswego County Animal Shelter, All Creatures Big and Small Pet Rescue, Oswego Humane Society, Kirkville Animal Rescue and Education (KARE), Creekside Veterinary Services, and numerous volunteers.

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