Over 400 animals rescued from Central Pa. farm; police found multiple bodies 'decaying' on property

Over 400 animals were rescued after authorities found neglected birds, rabbits, horses and goats on a farm in Shippensburg.

Pennsylvania State Police were called by Speranza Animal Rescue Friday afternoon for an emergency that involved "multiple bodies" that were "decaying all over the property," Janine Guido said. Guido said her rescue was called to remove the animals from the property and get them into a situation where they would be cared for.

"I was walking around the property with the one police officer and we went to the one pen, and we saw two decaying bodies and then another deceased body," said Guido, owner at Speranza, in a video. "One goat we thought was dead until he let out a scream. He was actively dying. Couldn’t even lift his head. I truly believe he let out that one last 'baa' so we would end his suffering."

The farm’s owner, Barry Lee Orndorff, 64, of Southampton Township, was charged with over 2,000 counts of neglect of food and water, adequate shelter, and medical attention for each animal on the farm. He was arraigned Friday night and released after posting $5,000 bail, according to court documents. 

A preliminary hearing is scheduled for June 14, before Magisterial District Judge Anthony Adams.

The relocated animals are finding a new home at Speranza in Monroe Township for the time being. The animal rescue takes in all animals coming from neglectful or abusive situations.

During the rescue, it was discovered that the birds were being stored in cramped cages, and about half the animals were diseased or malnourished, Guido said. A number of animals were also dead and decaying on the farm.

"This was super-emotional," Guido said in a Facebook post. "Not just because of the sadness of it, you know, to the animals that didn’t get off of the property and were laying there and decaying, and nobody cared about. But just seeing the community and our volunteers and just everybody come together, was just absolutely amazing."

In total, 404 animals were rescued from the farm over a two-day period, including goats, sheep, ducklings, chickens, rabbits and a horse. Most are sick, some are pregnant, but all were neglected.

The animals will be taken care of at Speranza until a new home is found, but Guido stressed that she needs help finding a future home for may of these animals.

"We really, really need help having these guys find a safe haven. We’ll get everybody vetted. But we definitely, definitely need help with the rescues," Guido said. She is hoping to find permanent homes for animals within a month.

Over $60,000 have also been raised in donations to help pay for vet services and additional grain, hay and straw.

Anyone looking to make a donation or offer help is encouraged to contact the rescue at 717-609-6020. Mail donations can be sent to Speranza Rescue at 1216 Brandt Road, Mechanicsburg, Pa. 17055.

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