Probable cause: Joplin man admits to leaving 8 puppies in sealed tote bag leading to their deaths

A probable cause statement filed today in Jasper County Circuit Court indicates a Joplin man admitted to the Jasper County Sheriff's Office that he left a sealed tote bag with eight puppies in it outside the Joplin Humane Society when it was closed.

By the time the puppies were found, they had all died from heat exhaustion.

The Jasper County Prosecuting Attorney's office filed eight misdemeanor animal abuse charges against Seth William Vaile, 30. Bond was set at $10,000 cash or surety with a condition that he not possess any animals or live in a home that has animals.

From the probable cause statement:

On 09/09/2024, at 1140 hours, I, Deputy Robles #357, was dispatched to the Joplin Humane Society at 140 East Emperor Lane, in Jasper County Missouri, for an animal abuse case. 

Upon arrival, I spoke with Caller 1 who advised they found a tote with eight deceased puppies on their property between two bushes. A veterinarian later determined that they had passed away due to heat exhaustion. 

Caller 1 was able to look at the footage and on 09/08/2024, at 1027 hours, a male was observed. The male was seen walking with the tote passed the doors and leaving the tote and walking away. The tote was placed partial between some bushes, halfway on the sidewalk, and in the sun. The tote was closed, which caused it to be completely sealed. 

The male was wearing a shirt with the number 54 on the back. 

During the investigation, the above named was identified as the suspect who had dropped the puppies off at humane society. The suspect was arrested on a city warrant and transported to the Jasper County Detention Center. The suspect was still wearing the shirt with the number 54 on the back at the time of his arrest for the warrant. 

Seth was later contacted, advised of his Miranda Rights, and admitted to dropping the puppies off along with knowing that the business was not open.

A news release issued today by the Jasper County Sheriff's Office said another man, Samuel Allen, 36, Joplin, was arrested on outstanding warrants and is a person of interest in this case. More charges may be filed.