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. 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. 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.

As a result of the investigation, Sheryl Woods (69), a resident of Marie Reine, and Cheryl Bastien (67), a resident of the MD of Smoky River, Alta., were charged with:

• Willful neglect of animals (Criminal Code Offense);

• Causing unnecessary suffering (Criminal Code Offense); and

• Permitting animals to be in distress (Animal Protection Act).

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 all of 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.”