On June 6, 2025, the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office and the Colorado Department of Agriculture were notified of an animal welfare concern at a property in the 17600 block of Boca Raton Heights, located in the Midway Ranch area of unincorporated El Paso County.
Deputies initiated an investigation and discovered the property had been the subject of multiple prior animal-related complaints. Conditions had significantly deteriorated, affecting the surrounding Midway community due to the inadequate care of several animals. In coordination with the Colorado Department of Agriculture, the Sheriff’s Office Specialized Patrol Unit obtained a search warrant.
On June 16, 2025, personnel from the Specialized Patrol Unit, Mounted Unit, Patrol Division, Department of Agriculture, the Brand Inspector, and a licensed veterinarian executed the warrant.
At the scene, authorities encountered a variety of animals living in deplorable conditions, many without access to food or water. Several deceased chickens were also found on the property. A veterinarian conducted on-site evaluations of each living animal.
As a result, the following animals were seized due to their poor condition and lack of proper care:
- 2 pigs
- 4 goats
- 3 sheep
- 4 rabbits
- 1 dog
- 2 turkeys
- 6 ducks
- 6 quail
- Over 20 chickens
Animals not requiring immediate medical intervention were left in place. A veterinarian provided guidelines for their continued care.
Two individuals were identified as the owners of the animals: 28-year-old Carlos J. Perez Morales and 46-year-old Clara Torres. Both have been criminally charged with multiple counts of animal cruelty.
A formal notice was issued to the owners requiring them to meet all animal health and welfare standards within 10 days. A follow-up inspection will be conducted to verify compliance. Should deficiencies remain, additional animals will be seized.
“Our partnerships with state and local agencies—including the Colorado Department of Agriculture and the Brand Inspector—are vital to protecting the well-being of both animals and our community,” said El Paso County Sheriff Joseph Roybal. “I appreciate the concerned citizens who brought this situation to our attention, and I commend our deputies for their swift and decisive response.”