Sheriff's Office

For Immediate Release

PR #: 1600001
Date Issued: Jan 05, 2016 - 11:06am

Sheriff's Office Deputies arrest 2 Sun Valley women on multiple felony child neglect charges due to hazardous home conditions

CASE #: 16-22
WHEN: January 2, 2016
CONTACT: Deputy Jeff McCaskill
Washoe County Sheriff's Office
Office 775-328-6370
Cell 775-771-8252

Washoe County Sheriff's Office deputies arrested Kathleen Dean, age 61 of Sun Valley, and Joleen Dean, age 41 of Sun Valley, on multiple child neglect and animal cruelty charges Saturday, January 2, 2016, following a welfare check that revealed hazardous living conditions for the children living in their residence.

Deputies initially responded to the Dean's property on Corina Circle in Sun Valley after Washoe County Regional Animal Services officers requested assistance from the Sheriff's Office to complete a check on several animals on the property.

Deputies on scene observed deplorable living conditions due to the many animals living on the property and within the residence. Animal feces and urine was found throughout the house. While investigating the incident, deputies discovered that there were three children (ages 11-14) living in the home and contacted Washoe County Child Protective Services. Together they were able to make the determination that the conditions were not suitable for the three children who had been living in the residence.

Based on evidence gathered at the scene, deputies arrested Kathleen Dean and Joleen Dean on three counts each of felony child neglect. In addition, the two are facing 19 charges of animal cruelty and 2 charges of unsanitary conditions.

In total, animal control officers discovered 10 dogs, 19 cats, 19 birds, 2 ducks, 1 turkey, 6 chickens, and 25 sugar gliders within the residence.

All three children are currently in the care of Washoe County Child Protective Services and the animals are in the care of Washoe County Regional Animal Services. The animals are currently under veterinary care and will be evaluated at a later time in order to be placed for adoption. Anyone wishing to assist with the care of these animals can donate to the Washoe County Regional Animal Services injured animal fund.

Photo #1: Dean, Kathleen

Photo #2: Dean, Joleen

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The Washoe County Sheriff's Office is dedicated to preserving a safe and secure community with professionalism, respect, integrity and the highest commitment to equality. Sheriff Darin Balaam is the 27th person elected to serve as the Sheriff of Washoe County since the Office was created in 1861. The Washoe County Sheriff's Office strives to ensure public safety by building trust and creating partnerships within the diverse communities in which we serve. We will promote the dignity of all people supported by our words and actions through open communication while fostering an environment of professionalism, integrity and mutual respect.

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