Bellingham woman facing 30 counts of animal cruelty booked into jail

WHATCOM COUNTY, Wash. — According to an affidavit of probable cause filed October 7, 2026, in Whatcom County Superior Court, Ashley Nichole Georgia, age 38, faces 30 counts of 1st-degree animal cruelty.

Georgia was arrested Oct. 23 by WCSO on a bench warrant and booked into the Whatcom County Jail, according to jail records.

Whatcom News reported on the initial investigation and rescue earlier this month.

On Oct. 5, Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) investigators received a report regarding about 30 dogs housed at a property in the 200 block of Russet Ave by Pittie Project PNW. Witnesses identified Georgia as the person operating the program and responsible for the dogs, according to the affidavit.

A witness reported taking 2 dogs from the property that had injuries. Photographs provided to investigators showed the dogs did not have injuries when they entered the program, according to court documents.

Investigators visited the property and were granted access by the owner. Investigators observed 17 dogs among feces and urine without access to food or water. According to the affidavit, the property owner reported 1 dog died and was buried on the property.

Each dog on the property had open wounds and worms. Investigators noted the dogs had matted fur, weight loss exposing bones, and were housed in an area with an odor. Dog food and feeding supplies were present on the property but animals did not have access to them, according to the affidavit.

Court documents state 13 other dogs were previously removed from the property by volunteers. Witnesses provided investigators with photo and video evidence of the conditions prior to law enforcement arrival.

According to the affidavit, Georgia received donated dog food and funds to care for the animals. All remaining animals on the property were removed to receive medical care.

17 dogs from a Whatcom County property after receiving reports of animal cruelty.