Two Arrested in El Paso for Animal Cruelty, One Dog Dies

EL PASO, Texas—The El Paso Police Department has arrested two individuals, Shannon Marie Hayes Inks, 39, and Wayne John Douglas Hayes, 44, on multiple charges related to animal cruelty. The arrests followed an investigation into concerning conditions reported by the community at a property in Northeast El Paso.

Officials found unsanitary conditions and substandard housing for numerous dogs during initial inspections. Subsequent visits revealed that the situation had worsened, with failures to meet minimum housing standards of care.

A court order was obtained, allowing Animal Services to fully assess the premises. As a result, twenty-five dogs were removed from the property and transported to the El Paso Animal Shelter. Veterinary staff provided medical treatment to the rescued animals, several of whom had serious health issues requiring urgent attention. Tragically, one dog died despite emergency medical efforts.

Shannon Marie Hayes Inks and Wayne John Douglas Hayes were arrested on September 5, 2025, and booked into the El Paso County Detention Facility. Both face charges of Cruelty to Non-livestock Animals: Kill/Poison/SBI (a 3rd-degree felony) and Cruelty to Non-livestock Animals: Failure To Provide (a Class A misdemeanor), with bonds set at $10,000 for each charge.

The remaining rescued animals are currently receiving care and ongoing monitoring at the shelter.