Update Nov. 18/25: Sheryl Woods, 69, of Marie Reine, and Cheryl Bastien, 67, of the MD of Smoky River, Alta., were charged under the Criminal Code with willful neglect of animals and causing unnecessary suffering. In addition, they were charged under the Animal Protection Act with permitting animals to be in distress.
Woods and Bastien were released on conditions and are to appear before the Alberta Court of Justice in Peace River on Dec. 15, 2025.
“Animals are important to us,” said Cst. Dayna Serafin of Valleyview RCMP. “I am grateful for the coordinated efforts of the Canadian Animal Task Force, the Alberta Animal Rescue Crew Society, and more than 16 animal welfare agencies from across Alberta – along with the support from Valleyview Town Councillor Ken Wittig and several local businesses. Together, we were able to immediately place these animals into safe environments where they are receiving the care they need.”
Over 300 animals in varying states of distress, both physically and mentally, were located and rescued. Many were deprived of basic necessities, including veterinary care and humane living conditions.
On Oct. 28, 2025, with assistance from Canadian Animal Task Force and Alberta Animal Rescue Crew Society, Valleyview RCMP executed a search warrant on the properties. In Sept. 2025, Valleyview RCMP became aware of possible animals in distress at the two locations of In The Woods Animals Rescue in Marie Reine and MD of Smoky River, Alta.
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Valleyview RCMP is investigating allegations of animals in distress and animal cruelty at a shelter.
Valleyview RCMP assisted by the Canadian Task Force and the Alberta Animal Rescue Crew Society, have rescued hundreds of surrendered animals, including cats, dogs, horses and other livestock, in varying states of distress.
Charges are currently pending and police say an update will be sent once charges are laid.
Valleyview RCMP wants to reassure the public that the animals are being cared for at this time.
