AVON, OHIO — A local man is disputing allegations of animal neglect after authorities removed more than 30 animals from his property during an enforcement operation last month.
On June 25, the Friendship Animal Protective League of Lorain County, in coordination with the Avon Police Department, carried out a search warrant at a residence on Kinzel Road. According to officials, a total of 37 animals were taken from the premises, including sheep, goats, dogs, and a cat. The action followed reports of inadequate care, including concerns related to shelter, food, and water access.
The individual at the center of the case, identified as Haydar Bektas, has publicly denied the accusations through a series of social media posts and videos. He maintains that his animals were being cared for and claims that the enforcement was motivated by bias rather than actual neglect. In response to the removal, Bektas has posted videos online and indicated plans to share surveillance and bodycam footage to support his claims. Large signs also appeared on the property following the incident, displaying messages critical of neighbors and the animal welfare agency.
Court records confirm that a hearing was held on July 7 to determine the interim custody of the animals. The presiding judge found that there was probable cause to believe the animals were involved in a violation of Ohio animal welfare laws. As a result, Bektas was ordered to post a bond to cover the cost of caring for the animals while the case continues.
The court determined that the daily care cost per animal is $12 for each goat and sheep, and $15 for each dog and cat. These rates were applied from the date of seizure through July 25, 2025, resulting in a total bond amount of $16,458. That amount must be paid to the Friendship APL by July 14 to maintain ownership rights during the legal process. The court also gave Bektas the option to file a surety bond, calculated at four times the monthly care cost per animal, in lieu of a cash deposit.
If no criminal charges are filed by July 21, the court has ordered the Friendship APL to return the animals to their owner. If the required bond is not posted by the deadline, the organization will be permitted to adopt out or otherwise place the animals.
Officials involved in the seizure maintain that the action was based solely on the condition of the animals and the environment in which they were kept. Observations at the scene reportedly included overgrown hooves, signs of heat stress, and unsanitary living conditions, though Bektas continues to dispute these claims.
Bektas also stated that he was not properly informed of his next court date and alleges procedural issues during the investigation. He has indicated that additional media coverage is expected as he seeks to bring public attention to his side of the story.
As of this writing, the case remains active with multiple deadlines approaching that could determine whether the animals are returned or permanently rehomed.