Farmer Allegedly Presided Over Horrific Conditions, Leaving 127 Animals Neglected And Suffering From Chronic Health Issues

A Wrightstown farmer is facing serious criminal charges following what animal welfare officials have described as one of the most egregious cases of animal neglect in Upper Bucks County history. Abigail Tuttle O’Keeffe, 53, was reportedly charged on New Year’s Eve with two counts of aggravated cruelty and 148 counts of animal neglect related to the management of her property, Narrow Way Farm, which spans 36 acres.

Authorities say that O’Keeffe allegedly abandoned 127 animals, including sheep, goats, and pigs, leading to the involvement of the Bucks County SPCA. This organization conducted a search warrant at O’Keeffe’s farm after a concerned farm manager apparently informed them of a dead sheep found on the property, leading to the discovery of extremely poor living conditions. Investigators reportedly found numerous animals suffering from infections, parasites, and severe malnutrition. Tragically, one goat was apparently so emaciated that it died during the rescue attempt, while another was euthanized after weeks of intensive care.

Further allegations detail that O’Keeffe appeared to lack the necessary experience to run a farm effectively. According to local volunteers and former staff, she managed the farm chaotically and often relied on community members to perform even basic caregiving tasks. Reports indicate that during one incident in 2022, O’Keeffe’s staff improperly dehorned an eight-month-old Jersey calf, causing severe nerve damage that ultimately led to the animal being butchered.

The treatment of the animals on the farm reportedly drew serious concerns from staff, who had raised issues about the apparent neglect. Allegations suggest that instead of seeking proper veterinary care, O’Keeffe instructed her workers to administer over-the-counter deworming products, raising questions about her commitment to the animals’ well-being. She had allegedly provided a cheap milling by-product as feed, lacking critical nutrients and exacerbating the health problems faced by the livestock.

As of now, O’Keeffe has not been arrested, and investigators are uncertain of her current whereabouts. There are reports she may be out of the country, as she had previously announced plans to move to Belize. Notably, despite these claims, she was apparently issued traffic tickets in Warrington Township for driving without a license several months later, which complicates the timeline of her departure.

Cindy Kelly, a spokesperson for the Bucks County SPCA, expressed the gravity of the situation. “The scale of this case is particularly shocking. It’s not just about animals living in appalling conditions, but it’s the sheer number and the chronic neglect that makes it stand out,” she said. Kelly also confirmed that 36 animals rescued from the farm are currently receiving care, while others have found new homes where they thrive.

Adding to the troubling narrative, law enforcement reportedly seized 73 pounds of marijuana and eight firearms from the property shortly after the animal rescue operation. These additional criminal facets suggest ongoing legal challenges for O’Keeffe and raise broader questions about her activities on the farm.

Animal welfare advocates hope that the distressing details of this case will raise awareness about animal care regulations and the responsibilities of farm operators. As the investigation continues, concern for the welfare of the rescued animals remains paramount.