Portland Woman Indicted on Felony Neglect Charges After Severely Starved Dog Dies

Portland, OR. — A Portland woman has been arrested on felony animal neglect charges following an investigation into a severely emaciated dog that was later euthanized, according to the Portland Police Bureau.

Police said the investigation began in early July after a neighbor provided officers with video showing an extremely underweight dog in the backyard of a home. Patrol officers were unable to locate the animal during their initial response, and the case was referred to the East Precinct Neighborhood Response Team.

During a follow-up visit to a residence in the 13500 block of Southeast Harold Street, officers located the dog, later identified as Fendi. Police described Fendi as visibly emaciated, with portions of her skeletal structure showing. She appeared weak and had difficulty walking toward officers.

Due to concerns about her immediate health, officers removed Fendi from the property for emergency veterinary treatment. Multnomah County Animal Services assisted with the investigation and assumed responsibility for her continued care.

Fendi’s health continued to deteriorate despite treatment. Animal Services ultimately decided to euthanize her because of the severity of her condition, police said.

Investigators continued working on the case after Fendi’s death. The investigation included a necropsy, veterinary records, witness statements and specialized forensic testing.

Bone samples were sent to a Michigan laboratory for analysis of Fendi’s bone marrow fat, which can be used to assess the severity of starvation. Testing found that approximately 1% of her bone marrow consisted of fat, compared with about 80% expected in a healthy animal, according to police.

Investigators were told the results showed an exceptionally severe level of emaciation and starvation.

The evidence was presented to a Multnomah County grand jury, which indicted 45-year-old Khadija V. Bradford of Portland on two counts of first-degree animal neglect. Both charges are felonies.

Bradford was taken into custody Sept. 15 after an arrest warrant was issued. An indictment represents a formal accusation and does not establish guilt.

Police encouraged residents to promptly report suspected animal abuse or neglect, saying early reports can allow authorities and animal welfare workers to intervene before an animal’s condition becomes life-threatening.

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