The U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Indiana has entered a consent decree with Vernon D. Miller, an exhibitor and dog breeder from Indiana. The agreement prevents Miller from applying for or engaging in any activities requiring a Department of Agriculture (USDA) license for two years. Should he obtain a license in the future, compliance with Animal Welfare Act (AWA) regulations will be mandatory to ensure humane care for animals.
In October, a complaint was filed against Miller, operating as Dutch Creek Farm Animal Park in Shipshewana, Indiana. It alleged violations of the AWA, including inadequate veterinary care and unsafe enclosures. Additionally, there were failures in maintaining sanitary housing and proper records.
Miller had accumulated 90 AWA violations within just over a year, affecting more than 300 animals such as deer, zebra, exotic birds, primates, and numerous dogs bred for sale. Violations included unsanitary conditions like stalls filled with feces and unclean food dishes. Allegedly, these conditions contributed to several animal deaths shortly before the case filing.
Following these findings, USDA suspended Miller's license for 21 days starting on October 9th. On October 28th, a temporary restraining order was issued by the court mandating compliance with AWA standards until December 2nd.
Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay commented on the situation: “The maltreatment of animals entrusted to Mr. Miller’s care is a despicable act that deserves just intervention.” She emphasized continued collaboration with federal partners to address similar cases.
Deputy Administrator Sarah Helming of USDA’s Animal Care program stated: “USDA is committed to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of animals protected under the Animal Welfare Act.” She highlighted the importance of enforcement partnerships between USDA and DOJ.
The five-year consent decree requires limited access for USDA inspectors if Miller's facility reopens to the public and mandates record production during periods without licensing. Future licensure would demand adherence to previously violated standards and accurate record-keeping.
This case was prosecuted by Senior Trial Attorney Devon Flanagan along with Trial Attorneys Kamela Caschette, Angela Mo, Chris Carrara from the Justice Department’s Wildlife and Marine Resources Section; Assistant U.S. Attorney Dirk DeLor; and supported by USDA's Office of General Counsel and Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service.