Authorities removed 215 live animals and discovered 14 dead on a Grass Valley property after a neighbor reported deceased animals on Nov. 30. Investigators later confirmed 229 animals had lived on the site; three were euthanized at the scene and four died after the rescue. Owner Joshua Evan Grayson, 39, faces eight felony counts of animal cruelty and was released on $10,000 bail while the district attorney reviews the case. Many survivors were emaciated or ill (including Orf infections) and are now quarantined and receiving veterinary care; 81 animals have been relinquished for adoption.
More Than 200 Animals Rescued in Massive Two‑Day Operation in Grass Valley After Suspected Abuse
Nevada County Sheriff's OfficeAnimals in recovery.
Authorities recovered hundreds of animals from a private property in Grass Valley, California, after responding to reports of dead and suffering animals. The two‑day extraction — prompted by a neighbor's Nov. 30 tip — uncovered widespread neglect, resulting in criminal charges and an intensive multi‑agency rescue effort.
Nevada County Sheriff's OfficeNevada County Sheriff's Office on property of Joshua Evan Grayson, 39, in Grass Valley, California, on on Nov. 30.
What Happened
Nevada County deputies and animal control officers began investigating after a neighbor reported deceased animals on Nov. 30. Although animal control staff were initially off duty, a patrol sergeant who responded found living animals in extremely poor condition and several deceased on the property. Animal control supervisor Stefanie Geckler and a veterinary specialist later joined the scene and described a dire situation that required immediate action.
Nevada County Sheriff's OfficeNevada County Sheriff's Office on a property in Grass Valley, California, on Nov. 30.
The Rescue Operation
Because of legal limits on seizing animals without a warrant, officers removed roughly 20 animals the first day under exigent‑circumstances authority provided by California Penal Code § 597.1. Investigators obtained a search warrant on Dec. 1 and over the following day conducted a large‑scale extraction with the Nevada County Sheriff’s Office, Animal Control, veterinary personnel and dozens of volunteers from the Sheriff’s Humane Emergency Animal Rescue Team (HEART).
Nevada County Sheriff's OfficeNevada County Sheriff's Office on a property in Grass Valley, California, on Nov. 30.
Animals Found
Officials later confirmed 229 animals had been living on the property. Law enforcement seized 215 live animals — including sheep, goats, horses, pigs, calves, chickens, dogs and several other species such as a donkey, pony, rabbit, cat and various birds. Investigators found 14 animals dead on the premises. Three animals were humanely euthanized at the scene because their conditions were beyond treatment, and four additional animals died after the rescue due to preexisting illnesses.
Nevada County Sheriff's OfficeNevada County Sheriff's Office deputies on property in Grass Valley, Calif., on Dec. 1.
Medical Concerns and Care
Many survivors were severely emaciated and suffered respiratory distress and mobility issues. A significant number tested positive for Orf (sore mouth disease), a contagious zoonotic infection that can spread to humans. All living animals seized are under veterinary care, quarantined by species, and monitored regularly while receiving treatment.
"Every animal that was alive and seized is currently under medical care," Geckler said, noting volunteers and veterinarians are evaluating and treating the animals around the clock.
People Involved and Next Steps
The property owner, identified as 39‑year‑old Joshua Evan Grayson, told officials he intended to open an animal rescue but was accused of failing to provide adequate care. Grayson has been charged with eight felony counts of animal cruelty and was released on $10,000 bail while the district attorney reviews the case. Any future restrictions on his ability to own animals will depend on the outcome of criminal proceedings.
Volunteers from HEART played a central role in the rescue and subsequent care, working long hours in cold conditions to secure and stabilize animals. Officials said 81 animals have already been relinquished and are expected to be made available for adoption through Sammie’s Friends at the Nevada County Animal Shelter once they are medically cleared.
Community Response
Sheriff Shannan Moon praised the community for reporting concerns and credited local volunteers and veterinary teams for making the rescue possible. Despite the heartbreaking discovery, responders emphasized that many animals now have a chance at recovery and new homes thanks to intensive care and community support.
