Photo credit – Office of Suffolk County District Attorney
For years, Double D Bar Ranch in Manorville claimed to be a safe haven for animals. But according to Suffolk County prosecutors, that couldn’t be further from the truth.
Instead of providing proper care, authorities say the so-called “sanctuary” allowed animals to suffer in horrific conditions—leading to a staggering 112 counts of animal neglect against the organization. Now, the ranch is banned from taking in any new animals. At the same time, the case plays out in court, and law enforcement has been granted full access to monitor those that remain on the property.
District Attorney Ray Tierney (R) didn’t mince words about the severity of the case.
“No matter what name it operates under, a ‘sanctuary’ is not a sanctuary when it becomes a place of suffering,” Tierney said. “When those who claim to provide care instead allow neglect and cruelty, we will take necessary action.”
The investigation began in early January 2025 when Suffolk County Police received numerous complaints about the ranch. Residents were worried about the animals—especially during the brutal, sub-zero temperatures that gripped the region this winter.
Detectives assigned to the Biological, Environmental, and Animal Safety Team (BEAST) made it a priority. They started checking in on the property almost daily, and what they allegedly found was nothing short of disturbing.
Authorities say they discovered hundreds of animals living in freezing temperatures without proper shelter or access to water. Many appeared malnourished, injured, or suffering from untreated medical conditions. Among them include horses, cows, goats, sheep, pigs, mules, chickens, turkeys, peacocks, and an alpaca, as well as assorted waterfowl.
Even household pets, including a dog and several cats, were also found.
Some animals were reportedly found dead on the property. In contrast, others suffered from severe ailments like dental disease, open wounds, tumors, lameness, and respiratory infections. Officials say many had overgrown hooves, claws, and nails, making movement painful and difficult.
Realizing the urgent need for intervention, BEAST detectives, veterinarians, and rescue organizations jumped into action.
For weeks, law enforcement worked alongside private rescue groups to provide food, medical treatment, and proper care for the animals still on-site. Some were removed from the property for immediate care, while efforts to rehabilitate the ranch are ongoing.
The case reached a turning point on February 11, 2025, when authorities issued an appearance ticket to Double D Bar Ranch. Two days later, on February 13, the organization was officially arraigned on 112 counts of animal neglect before District Court Judge Susan A. Berland.
During the hearing, prosecutors pushed for two critical court orders:
A ban on the ranch taking in more animals while the case is pending; and Authorization for law enforcement to conduct regular welfare checks on the remaining animals.
Judge Berland granted both requests, ensuring no more animals fell victim to the alleged neglect.
Double D Bar Ranch is set to return to court on February 24, 2025. The organization is being represented by attorneys Nora Constance Marino and Joseph W. Murray.
Meanwhile, Assistant District Attorneys Brooke Salvatore and Joanna Chalifoux of the BEAST team are prosecuting the case. Detective Joanna Westrack and other members of the Suffolk County Police Department’s District Attorney’s Squad are leading the investigation.
While the legal battle unfolds, the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office has thanked the many organizations that played a crucial role in rescuing and caring for the animals, such as 13 Hands Equine Rescue, Blue Arrow Farm, Deep Hollow Ranch, Eastern Snouts, Humane Long Island, Mattituck Laurel Veterinary Hospital, Suffolk County Farm / Cornell Cooperative Extension, the Suffolk County Executive’s Office, and the Town of Brookhaven.
This case is a stark reminder that not every animal rescue organization is what it seems. Suppose you suspect animal neglect, abuse, or illegal possession of exotic or dangerous animals in Suffolk County. In that case, authorities urge you to take action:
Report online via the Suffolk County District Attorney’s website.
In an emergency, call 911 immediately.
To report anonymously, call Crimestoppers at 1-800-220-TIPS (8477).
As the case against Double D Bar Ranch moves forward, one thing is clear—Suffolk County won’t tolerate those who mistreat the animals they claim to protect.
