Muscatine County woman charged with violating pretrial release now released on bail

By DAVID HOTLE – Muscatine Journal, Iowa (TNS)

A woman charged in Muscatine County with having animals while barred from doing so under conditions of pretrial release in another animal hoarding case has been released on bail.

During a bond review hearing Monday for Kelly Adams, who was arrested Dec. 13 after law enforcement executed a search warrant and found 24 animals on her property, bond was set at $30,900 cash or surety for six of the charges. She was released on her own recognizance on the other charges.

Adams

Kelly Adams

According to court documents, Adams posted $30,900 surety with Lederman Bail Bonds. Her next hearing is set for Feb. 11, 2025.

Adams had been charged with violating the conditions of her pretrial release.

On June 17 sheriff’s deputies executed a search warrant at her residence, at which time 63 animals were seized. According to the arrest reports, deputies, assisted by It Takes A Village, located numerous dogs in kennels outside or running loose on the property. The entirety of the residence was reported soaked in animal urine and feces, with several dogs running in the residence. The residence was declared unfit for human occupation. Several deceased animals were also located.

She faces 67 counts of animal neglect and six counts of animal neglect resulting in injury or death. She was released on her own recognizance. As part of an order for conditions of release, as set forth by Muscatine County District Court, Adams was prevented from “acquiring, owning, caring for or residing with any animals of any kind or with persons who otherwise own or possess animals.” Adams was also required to immediately notify the court if her address, persons residing or the animals located at the residence change.

On Dec. 13, deputies executed a search warrant in rural Muscatine County at Adams’ residence in connection with the previous case, finding 24 animals, of which 19 were alive. For a few months, the sheriff’s office had received reports that Adams had moved to a new residence and new animals were living there with her. It was identified that Adams was living at the new location.

On Dec. 18, the Muscatine County Attorney’s office filed a petition to hold Adams, as well as Dominic Adams and Madison Steele, as the “responsible party” under Iowa code and for them to be required to pay for all fees associated with the impoundment of the 24 animals, 19 of which were alive, when a search warrant was executed on Dec. 13 and Dec. 20. The state is asking the animals be declared to have been mistreated or threatened.

A hearing on the petition will be held Dec. 27.

“As a further result of the foregoing, criminal charges may be filed against Kelly Adams, Dominic Adams and Madison Steele herein by the Muscatine County Sheriffs Office when all animals have been evaluated and veterinary services performed,” the petition says.

The animals remain in the custody of It Takes A Village Animal Rescue and Shelter.

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Decorating for Christmas can be a fun tradition, but it can also be tricky when you have cats around. To ensure both your decorations and your furry friend stay safe during the holidays, here are some helpful tips. Start by protecting your cat from potential hazards like Christmas lights. Cats can be curious and may risk burns or electrocution from exposed cords. To prevent this, always use a pet-proof cord protector to cover any exposed wires and protect your feline friend. Place delicate ornaments higher up on the tree to avoid breakage, and hang bells on the lower branches to help you hear when your cat gets too close. It’s also important to skip the tinsel, as it can cause stomach blockages if ingested, despite not being toxic. To keep your cat away from the tree, consider spraying it or some decorative pine cones with apple cider vinegar, as cats strongly dislike the smell. Lastly, if your cat tends to play with the tree stand, cover it with a tree skirt to make it less accessible. By following these precautions, you can enjoy a safe and festive holiday season with your cat while keeping your decorations intact.

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