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LAS CRUCES -- A Las Cruces father was jailed after police allegedly found his family living in animal filth, according to the Las Cruces Police Department.
David M. Lanning, 27, of the 1800 block of Bellamah Drive, was arrested Thursday and charged with negligent child abuse.
A caseworker from the Children, Youth and Families Department alerted LCPD to the condition of the home, which Lanning shared with his wife, their two children, and at least 17 cats and four dogs.
The animals had covered the floors with feces, detectives alleged, and the permeating stench had caused breathing problems for the entire family, a health hazard. In addition, Lanning's two children were allegedly forced to attend school multiple times wearing clothing visibly stained with animal feces, according to LCPD.
Because Lanning's wife is believed to be a victim of the alleged abuse, she and the children have been relocated and animal control officers took possession of the animals.
Lanning was transported to the Do-a Ana County Detention Center with bond set at $10,000.
