2 charged in illegal breeding operation in NE Philly

"We want to send a strong message that illegal breeding operations will not be tolerated," George Bengal, director of Humane Law Enforcement, said in statement. "Unfortunately, the recidivism rate with illegal animal breeding remains high, and animals are suffering."

The SPCA said humane officers had been keeping an eye on Mitchell because of her record and removed a dog and cat on Wednesday.

They returned with a warrant on Thursday and removed the other dogs, the SPCA said.

The rescued dogs included Jack Russell terriers, Shih Tzus, labs and a beagle, the SPCA said. Eleven of them were puppies. Some of the dogs were ill or exposed to other sick dogs.

The animals are undergoing evaluation and treatment at the SPCA and will be placed with rescue organizations to recuperate and eventually find new homes.