Malamutes at Heart of Neglect Case Get New Digs

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — Dozens of malamutes at the heart of a neglect case are being moved to a new location while the trial against their owner is pending.

Last October, 160 malamutes were rescued from the Jefferson County property of Mike Chilinski, who faces trial in October on more than 90 animal cruelty charges.

The dogs had been held at an undisclosed location for several months, but the landlord wanted them out by the end of June.

Lewis and Clark Humane Society Director Gina Wiest says the now 200 dogs will be moved to the former State Nursery property west of Helena, starting next week.

The property was the site of a medical marijuana growing operation until it was raided by federal agents in March 2011.