12 Dogs Removed from Unsanitary Living Conditions in Richland
By Shannon Weidemann (McKone) on Monday, December 29th, 2025 in More Top Stories Northeastern Oregon News
RICHLAND, OR- (Release from Baker County Sheriff’s Office) On December 26, 2025, the Baker County Sheriff’s Office removed 12 medium, mixed breed dogs living in unsanitary conditions on Summit Creek Road in Richland, Oregon.
Robert Richard Ward III (47 yoa) of Richland, was traveling on Highway 86 in the early
morning hours of December 23 rd when his vehicle left the roadway and became disabled. When contacted by Oregon State Police and Baker County Sheriff’s Office, he explained that he was taking his critically injured dog to a veterinarian in Baker City. During the contact, it was discovered that Ward was the subject of an Idaho warrant.
Trooper Bennett (Oregon State Police) took Ward into custody and transported him to the Baker County Jail where he was charged with Failure to Report as a Sex Offender, Improper Use of 911 and Fugitive. Undersheriff Durheim (Baker County Sheriff’s Office) loaded the injured dog into his patrol vehicle and transported him to the Animal Clinic in Baker City for care.
While incarcerated, community members reached out to BCSO with concerns regarding Ward’s dogs and living conditions at the residence. The individual tasked with feeding the dogs was unable to enter the residence due to the behavior of the dogs. It was determined that there was no long-term sustainable option for care while Ward was incarcerated. Ward forfeited the twelve dogs.
Sheriff Ash and BCSO personnel went to the residence to secure the dogs. Ward, still in custody, was transported by deputies to assist with entering the home and kenneling the dogs. Upon arrival, it was clear the conditions of the residence were unsuitable for the dogs living there. The living conditions were described as deplorable, with an overwhelming smell of pet urine and feces. The dogs were successfully kenneled and transported to the Animal Clinic, where they will be evaluated.
Animal neglect charges are pending.
BCSO would like to thank Dick Haines with New Hope for Eastern Oregon Animals for the use of their dog kennels and the staff at the Animal Clinic for their partnership and assistance with the dogs.
