On October 6, 2021, a local “animal rescuer” and owner of SAFFARI (Save A Furry Friend Animal Rescue, Inc.) was arrested on drug and animal cruelty charges. The suspect, Ruth Rupprecht (DOB: 10/22/1961), was being investigated since May 2021, after a puppy was adopted from her organization and died a few days later.
Major Case Detectives opened an additional investigation on Rupprecht on September 15, 2021, after a search warrant was served at 6 West 16th Road in Palm Coast. The search warrant was initially for the sale of prescription narcotics being sold from the residence. During the search warrant, more than $20,000 cash, over 100 prescription medications, and 46 animals were seized from the property. The conditions of the animals found during the search led detectives to open another investigation for animal cruelty resulting in a felony arrest warrant for Rupprecht for new drug charges and animal cruelty charges on October 5, 2021.
“I’m glad to see she’s facing consequences for her actions,” Sheriff Rick Staly said. “I’m proud of the Major Case Unit, our Agriculture Crimes Unit, and detective team for continuing to build a case against this woman. We will not tolerate poison peddlers, especially those that use innocent animals as a front to hide their illegal activity in Flagler County.”
Rupprecht was arrested on October 6, 2021, for Possession of Morphine, Possession of a Controlled Substance, Possession of a Legend Drug with Intent to Sell, Dispense, or Deliver, and 10 Counts of Cruelty to Animals. She is being held at the Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility on a $50,000 bond.
Melissa Morreale
Public Affairs Officer
Organizational Services Division
Flagler County Sheriff’s Office
