DELAND, Fla. (WOFL FOX 35 ORLANDO) -
The owners of a DeLand animal rescue authorities described as "deplorable" were allowed to reopen but agreed Monday afternoon to let seized animals remain in city custody or in shelters until their facility can get up to code.
During a four hour hearing, Animal Rescue Konsortium owners came to an agreement with the city of DeLand. The hearing drew such a large crowd that many people had to stand outside the courtroom.
Both supporters and critics of ARK spoke, including veterinarians and volunteers. Some said the ARK facility in DeLand did nothing wrong, while others said the rescue neglected and endangered the animals.
Representatives from ARK said the claims were exaggerated, saying animal control showed up early in the morning, before cleaning and feeding of the animals began.
"There's never been any foul smell like people are saying. I don't know what story people are spinning to get to this. This is ridiculous," ARK owner Maggi Hall said.
DeLand Police seized of 135 animals from the rescue facility November 8, 2012. A video showed the inside of the shelter on the day it was raided. Empty water bottles, filthy litter boxes and animal feces on the floor and walls can be seen in the video.
