Warning: The details in this story are graphic and may be disturbing to some readers.
AUBURN, Ala. (WRBL) – Auburn Police say a woman is facing a felony animal cruelty charge after investigators found her dog and cat dead inside her apartment. Detectives allege the animals were left to starve, and when the woman discovered their bodies in June, she shut the door and never returned.
On August 25, 2025, officers responded to an apartment complex at 420 North Dean Road after employees reported a strong odor coming from an apartment. According to court documents, staff conducted a walkthrough and found a deceased dog in a bedroom. Detectives and animal control officers were called to the scene.
Investigators reported the bedroom was littered with empty cat food cans, fur, and dried feces. They discovered the dog’s body in a corner of the room, along with what appeared to be a cat paw and other cat remains scattered on the floor. Police are also investigating whether the dog may have resorted to eating the cat in an attempt to survive.
The sole leaseholder, identified as Ashley Susan Graham, was interviewed by detectives, where she gave a rights-advised statement. Graham told investigators back in June that she was unable to check on her dog or cat for two to three days.
PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Auburn woman taken into custody after being accused of animal cruelty
When she returned, she said she found her dog deceased and feces covering the bedroom floor. According to court documents Graham admitted she closed the bedroom door and had not returned to the apartment.
Graham was booked into the Lee County Detention Center on one felony count of aggravated animal cruelty.
Court documents allege she inflicted inhumane treatment by leaving a dog and cat without food, water, or care for multiple days, ultimately causing the death of both animals.
She has since been released on bond and is awaiting court proceedings. Investigators say the case remains active.
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