PUEBLO COUNTY, Colo. – Authorities have arrested a Southern Colorado woman after her mother was fatally mauled by dogs, an investigation revealing a shocking case of neglect and animal hoarding.
According to the Pueblo County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to a distress call on February 3 regarding an unconscious woman. Upon arrival, they found 76-year-old LaVonne Hoff dead, surrounded by multiple dogs inside her home.
Autopsy Confirms Fatal Dog Attack
Autopsy results confirmed that LaVonne Hoff succumbed to injuries sustained in a violent dog attack. Authorities noted that she had dementia and required around-the-clock care. The circumstances of her death quickly raised concerns about her living conditions and her daughter’s role in the incident.
Investigators later discovered that LaVonne’s daughter, 47-year-old Jessica Hoff, had left her mother alone while she ran errands. What they uncovered next painted a troubling picture of neglect and potential animal abuse.
Authorities Uncover Dozens of Animals
Further investigation led deputies to a second property in Colorado City, roughly 27 miles from the scene. There, they discovered an astonishing number of animals living in unsanitary conditions:
- 54 dogs housed in overcrowded and hazardous environments.
- 7 birds also found on the property.
- Evidence of severe neglect and lack of proper care.
Officials immediately took action to remove the animals, with Pueblo County Deputies and Animal Law Enforcement seizing them from the property.
Charges Filed Against Jessica Hoff
Following the grim discoveries, Jessica Hoff was arrested and now faces multiple charges, including:
- Criminal negligence resulting in death.
- 54 counts of aggravated cruelty to animals.
Authorities continue to investigate whether additional charges will be filed. Pueblo County officials have not disclosed the breeds of the dogs involved in the attack but confirmed that many were found in poor health.
A Growing Concern Over Animal Hoarding
Cases of extreme animal hoarding have raised alarms nationwide. Experts point to mental health disorders, financial instability, and lack of resources as contributing factors. Animal welfare groups stress the importance of intervention before such cases escalate to tragic outcomes.
For now, Pueblo County officials are working to rehome the rescued animals while ensuring no similar incidents occur in the future. Meanwhile, Jessica Hoff awaits legal proceedings as the community grapples with the heartbreaking loss of LaVonne Hoff.
