Two Manchester men face multiple animal neglect charges

Police said two men face dozens of animal neglect charges after 69 animals were rescued earlier this month from a residence in Manchester. 38-year-old Bradley D. Gerike and 36-year-old Donald L. Schmitt both of Manchester, both face charges that include 69 counts of animal neglect-no injury. According to Manchester Police Chief Ben Davis, the pair also face charges of animal neglect causing serious injury or death and failure to dispose of a dead animal. Additionally, Gerike faces charges of possession of marijuana-second offense and possession of drug paraphernalia. Court documents state that police received a citizen’s complaint of possible animal neglect at a residence on Dec. 6. During an execution of a search warrant Dec. 11 at the home, police rescued three cats, 25 birds and 41 rabbits. A deceased rabbit was found on the property, and police were told that other animals had died prior to Dec. 11. The rescued animals were transported to Dubuque Regional Humane Society in the organization’s rescue trailer. Many of the animals are already available for adoption. Both Schmitt and Gerike have preliminary hearings set for Jan. 8 in Delaware County District Court.